Report: Chelsea chase RB Leipzig forward Xavi Simons in frantic final push

The Blues have long admired Simons, the 22-year-old who shone on loan at Leipzig last season with 10 goals and 13 assists across all competitions. Recent developments have added urgency, as Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff personally engaged in talks with Chelsea, according to Sky Germany.

Those discussions made one thing clear: Chelsea must trim their squad before tabling a formal bid for the Netherlands international.

Leipzig have stuck to their valuation of 70 million euros including add-ons, a figure that sources close to the club have described as non-negotiable for a player of Simons' calibre. With only days left, a straight cash deal remains elusive, pushing Chelsea toward a potential player exchange.

Christopher Nkunku, the former Leipzig man now at Stamford Bridge, has emerged as a key figure in potential swap talks, though his future hangs in doubt.

RB Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schafer confirmed the player's interest in a move, stating, "He's also told us" about discussions regarding Chelsea. Simons himself has expressed a desire to join the Premier League side, with reports from Metro indicating he has informed Leipzig of his wish to depart for west London.

Yet Schafer added a note of caution, suggesting an agreement is "still some way off," highlighting the complexities involved.

Chelsea's pursuit has gained momentum despite late interest from Tottenham Hotspur, as Sky Sports reported further talks between the clubs are expected imminently. The Blues' head coach Enzo Maresca has waited patiently for reinforcements in attack, and securing Simons alongside Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho could provide the green light he craves, per Football.London.

However, UEFA squad rules and financial fair play constraints mean outgoing moves are crucial.

The impending sale of Carney Chukwuemeka to Borussia Dortmund should free up funds and space, but broader squad overhaul talks, including potential exits for Nicolas Jackson to Bayern Munich or Nkunku to Leipzig, could unlock the deal.

ESPN noted Chelsea are "still hoping" for both Simons and Garnacho, but arrivals depend on departures to comply with regulations.

The Dutchman's creativity, vision, and goal threat would slot perfectly into Maresca's possession-based system, potentially transforming Chelsea's midfield options.