Xavi Simons, heavily linked with Chelsea, could seamlessly integrate into Enzo Maresca’s squad due to his versatility, technical ability, and attacking flair. A report from Nicolò Schira said that the Xavi Simons deal is done, however most fans will most likely wait until popular journalists like Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein confirm this.
🚨 Xavi Simons to Chelsea is a done deal and confirmed, with him signing a contract until 2032. [@NicoSchira] pic.twitter.com/VsYaAV1aBK
— CFC-Blues (@CFCBlues_com) July 31, 2025
Positional Fit
Simons primarily thrives as an attacking midfielder (No. 10) but can also play as a winger or in a slightly deeper central role. Maresca’s system often employs two advanced midfielders (effectively two No. 10s) behind a striker, which aligns with Simons’ preference for operating in central areas or drifting inside from the left. He could:
- Play as a Left-Sided No. 10: Simons could occupy the left side of Maresca’s attacking midfield duo, complementing Cole Palmer, who often plays centrally or on the right. This would allow Simons to cut inside, link play, and exploit half-spaces, as he did at RB Leipzig.
- Cover for Cole Palmer: Simons’ ability to play centrally provides depth and competition for Palmer, potentially allowing Palmer to shift to the right wing or rest during a busy season.
- Wide Option: Though less frequent, Simons has experience on the flanks, offering flexibility to replace or rotate with wingers like Jamie Gittens or Joao Pedro.
His versatility addresses Chelsea’s need for creative depth, especially after selling Noni Madueke to Arsenal and with Joao Felix’s move to Al-Nassr.
Tactical Fit
Maresca’s possession-based, high-pressing style demands technically proficient players who can create in tight spaces and contribute to build-up play. Simons’ attributes make him a strong fit:
- Creativity and Vision: Simons recorded 11 goals and 8 assists in 33 games for Leipzig last season, showcasing his ability to unlock defenses with precise passing and well-timed runs. His “fearless” dribbling and vision, as noted by fans on X, would add dynamism to Chelsea’s midfield.
- Calmness Under Pressure: His ability to receive the ball on the half-turn and maintain composure suits Maresca’s system, which emphasizes control and progression through the lines.
- Work Rate: Simons’ high energy and pressing align with Chelsea’s need for intensity off the ball, as seen in their Club World Cup campaign.
📊 Xavi Simons Career Stats
— Football Pundit (@footballpund10) July 23, 2025
🎮 Games Played: 176
⚽ Goals: 64
🎯 Assists: 52pic.twitter.com/V2TZBxqBSU
Squad Integration
Chelsea’s youthful, dynamic squad—bolstered by signings like Joao Pedro (£60m), Jamie Gittens (£48m), and Liam Delap—fits Simons’ profile as a 22-year-old with high potential. His familiarity with high-level football (Barcelona’s La Masia, PSG, Leipzig) and international experience (Netherlands) ensures he can handle the Premier League’s intensity.
However, Chelsea’s bloated squad means Simons’ arrival depends on further exits. The sales of Felix (£43.7m to Al-Nassr) and Madueke (£52m to Arsenal) have freed up funds and space, but players like Christopher Nkunku, Raheem Sterling, or Carney Chukwuemeka could also depart to accommodate him. Simons’ reported preference for Chelsea over Bayern Munich and Arsenal, combined with his agent Ali Barat’s strong ties to the club, boosts their chances of securing him for around €70m (£61.2m).
Potential Challenges
- Competition for Places: With Palmer, Pedro, and Gittens already in attacking roles, Simons must compete for minutes unless Maresca rotates heavily for the Champions League and domestic cups.
- Fee Negotiations: Leipzig’s €70m valuation is steep, though Chelsea’s recent sales and their relationship with Barat could help lower the cost.
- Adaptation to the Premier League: While Simons’ skill set suits England, the physicality and pace could pose an initial challenge, though his pre-season fitness gives him an edge.
Fan and Expert Sentiment
Posts on X reflect excitement among Chelsea fans, with users praising Simons’ “creativity, dribbling, & vision” and his fit as a No. 10 or left winger. Experts like Fabrizio Romano report advanced talks, with Simons keen on the move, suggesting confidence in his integration.
Conclusion
Xavi Simons would likely thrive at Chelsea as a creative, versatile attacking midfielder, slotting into Maresca’s system as a left-sided No. 10 or Palmer’s understudy. His technical quality, work rate, and youth align with Chelsea’s long-term project, though his signing hinges on finalizing a fee and managing squad space. If completed, he could be a key piece in Chelsea’s push for a Premier League title challenge in 2025/26.
