Chelsea and Arsenal Set to Battle for Bundesliga Star as Leipzig Open to Sale

Jul 21, 2025 2 min read
Chelsea and Arsenal Set to Battle for Bundesliga Star as Leipzig Open to Sale
Enzo Maresca and Mikel Arteta

RB Leipzig are preparing for a significant departure this summer as one of their standout players has informed the club of his desire to move. After missing out on Champions League qualification, the Bundesliga side is expected to be more flexible when it comes to high-value sales — particularly as interest in some of their top assets intensifies.

Player Pushes for Premier League Move

Xavi Simons is the player, the 22-year-old Dutch winger, who only completed a permanent transfer to Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain in January for £41.8 million following an 18-month loan, has made it clear he wants to leave. Despite his recent commitment, the player is eager to take the next step in his career, with the Premier League as his preferred destination.

Chelsea and Arsenal Eye Big-Money Deal

Chelsea and Arsenal are both monitoring the situation closely. Sources suggest the player's price tag is now set at over £60 million, with Leipzig open to talks around a figure under €70 million (£59.5m). Both London clubs are in the market for attacking reinforcements and see the Dutchman as a key addition.

Chelsea Looking to Fill Void After Madueke Exit

Following Noni Madueke's switch to North London, Chelsea are actively seeking a new winger to boost their options on the flanks. The former PSG talent is high on their list as they aim to add more pace and creativity to their attacking unit.

Arsenal Still Seeking Firepower Despite Recent Signings

Arsenal, too, are pursuing additional forward options. Despite their capture of Madueke and a looming deal for striker Viktor Gyökeres, Mikel Arteta is focused on building squad depth as the Gunners prepare for another title challenge and a return to Champions League competition.

European Rivals Remain Interested

While Chelsea and Arsenal appear to lead the chase, European heavyweights Bayern Munich and Barcelona are also monitoring developments. However, the player’s strong preference for a move to England gives the Premier League clubs a significant edge.

Deal Expected to Develop Soon

With the winger's intentions clear since May and only two years remaining on his Leipzig contract, talks are expected to progress quickly. Leipzig have indicated they’ll only part with one of their top stars this summer — and the Premier League giants are now in a race to secure his signature.

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