Arsenal have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Xavi Simons from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) this summer. Following an impressive loan spell at RB Leipzig, the 21-year-old has continued to shine with outstanding performances at Euro 2024, where he represented the Netherlands.
Simons’ journey over the past few years has been quite eventful. In 2023, PSG activated a buy-back clause to bring him back for just €6 million, a year after he had left to join PSV on a free transfer, having turned down a contract extension from PSG. Despite PSG’s clear interest in retaining Simons, the player has communicated his desire to go out on loan again for the upcoming season.
There has been considerable interest from the Premier League, including from Arsenal, but Bayern Munich and Leipzig have been the most aggressive in their pursuit of his signature. Bayern Munich, in particular, were keen to secure him on a permanent deal. However, it has been decided that Simons will go on another temporary move instead.
No major negotiations had taken place over the last few weeks, as Simons was focused on the Netherlands’ European Championship campaign. That focus has now shifted following the Netherlands’ exit from Euro 2024.
On Wednesday evening, England knocked the Netherlands out of the tournament with a 2-1 victory in the semi-finals. Simons had given his nation an early lead with a thunderous strike from the edge of the box, marking his first goal of the tournament and adding to the three assists he had already provided.
The defeat by England has brought Simons’ impressive Euro 2024 run to a close, opening the door for transfer negotiations to resume.
Arsenal, who have been monitoring his progress closely, are now in a prime position to make their move. The club is eager to strengthen their squad with young, talented players who can make an immediate impact, and Simons fits this profile perfectly.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has emphasized the importance of bringing in top-tier talent to enhance the team’s competitiveness. Simons’ addition would align with Arsenal’s strategy of signing promising young players to build for the future while also contributing to the present.
For Simons, another loan move represents an opportunity to continue his development and gain more first-team experience. At Leipzig, he showcased his abilities and potential, and a similar stint at another top club would further enhance his career trajectory. Arsenal’s interest suggests they see him as a key part of their plans moving forward.
While Bayern Munich and Leipzig have shown strong interest, Arsenal’s approach seems to be gaining momentum, especially with the player’s focus now fully shifted to his club career following the Euros. With PSG open to letting him go on loan again, the path is clear for Arsenal to secure one of the most promising young talents in European football.
Simons’ performance at Euro 2024 has only increased his stock, and his ability to influence games at such a young age makes him a valuable asset for any club. Arsenal will be hoping to finalize the deal soon, adding another exciting prospect to their squad as they aim to compete for top honors in the upcoming season.
