Chelsea are ramping up their efforts to sign Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons, with talks expected to continue with RB Leipzig despite recent interest from Tottenham.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who featured against Bayern Munich last night, has been a key target for the Blues as they look to further bolster their squad before the summer transfer window closes.
Enzo Maresca Wants More Reinforcements
Even after adding Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Estevao to the frontline, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca is eager to strengthen his squad further.
Alongside Simons, the club is also eyeing Manchester United outcast Alejandro Garnacho to enhance their attacking options.
Ongoing Negotiations With Leipzig
Chelsea have reportedly been in discussions with Leipzig over Simons for several weeks, though no official offer has yet been lodged.
Leipzig, meanwhile, are exploring other options, including Christopher Nkunku and Harvey Elliott, as potential replacements if Simons leaves.
Simons is expected to cost around £60million, and Leipzig’s sporting director, Marcel Schafer, has emphasized that the club will only sanction a sale if it makes economic sense.
“We know his great ambitions to play in a top league for a title contender,” Schafer told BILD.
“If it makes economic sense, we’re open. But only then.”
Squad Overhaul in the Works
To make room for new signings, Chelsea are actively considering trimming their bloated roster.
Up to nine first-team players could be on the move, either through sales or loans.
Names reportedly under consideration include Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson, Renato Veiga, Alex Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell, Tyrique George, and Raheem Sterling.
Injury Woes for Cole Palmer
Chelsea’s preparations have also been disrupted by injuries.
Talented forward Cole Palmer missed the 5-1 demolition of West Ham after sustaining a groin issue during the warm-up.
Maresca explained, “Cole in the last four or five days was not one hundred per cent.
He tried in the warm-up, but he felt something, so we preferred not to take any risks.
It’s already something he was not at full fitness for during the Crystal Palace game, but he’s really keen to help the team. We’ll see in the next hours if it’s serious.”
Looking Ahead
With the summer window closing soon, Chelsea face a busy few weeks.
Negotiations for Simons and Garnacho, squad reshuffles, and managing injuries like Palmer’s will all be key as Maresca looks to finalize a competitive squad for the Premier League season.
