Xavi Simons is one of the best young players in the world and will be available for transfer next season, according to the latest reports in Germany.
A player of Simons' talent is bound to garner plenty of attention, especially following his good performances at EURO 2024 in an attacking role for the Netherlands, where he scored for his country against England in the semi-final.
Liverpool were reported to be interested in signing the PSG player during the summer, but he decided to return to RB Leipzig on a loan deal for one more year. However, the club could go back in for him if the opportunity arises in 2025.
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"At RB Leipzig they are naturally overjoyed that Xavi Simons is staying a year longer. The boss' great hope is that his brutal mentality will be transferred to the entire team and at best lead to titles," said Yvonne Gabriel, who covers Leipzig for German outlet BILD.
"Either way, it is already clear that the chances of Xavi Simons staying at Leipzig beyond this season are very, very slim," she added.
Simons has a price tag of approximately £68m, according to BILD, and apparently lists the Premier League as one of his dream destinations.
"That's why he took on a new adviser a year ago, the Englishman Darren Dein," Gabriel said. Dein's father David – a former co-owner of Arsenal – was an integral part of the formation of the Premier League.
"Darren naturally has top connections on the island, but it's fair to say that the whole league has long had Xavi on its radar.
"Liverpool were also extremely keen on him this summer. There is a good connection to coach Arne Slot."
Simons had an offer from Man Utd in 2022, but chose to go to Leipzig because there were better development opportunities.
Mac City have also been linked with Simons due to the fact that Kevin de Bruyne's contract expires in 2025, and the Dutch midfielder could be an ideal replacement for Guardiola's side.
Where would Simons play for Liverpool?
Simons is predominantly an attacking midfielder, but is also capable of playing on either wing if needed.
Everything at current club Leipzig runs through Simons, so if he was to move to Liverpool, he would need to get used to being one of a number of highly talented players rather than the biggest star at the club.
Slot has made great use of Dominik Szoboszlai so far this season, with the Hungarian midfielder playing in a number 10 role closer to the goal than last season. It's a position that would suit Simons perfectly.
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Competition for places at Liverpool is extremely tough, which could have an effect on wherever Simons does end up.
"One thing is clear, as his career plan shows, Xavi choses every step very consciously," concluded Garbiel. "It's all about playing time, a lot of confidence and his big dream of wanting to win everything."