Chelsea tracked the Netherlands international for much of the transfer window but never made a formal bid to RB Leipzig, instead focusing on moving players out before considering a deal. That hesitation allowed Spurs to step in late and secure Simons in a move worth around fifty-one point eight million pounds.
The 22-year-old, who can operate as a No.10 or from the left wing, has been brought in to help fill the creative void left by James Maddison's ACL injury and the absence of Dejan Kulusevski. Tottenham had previously missed out on targets Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze.
Speaking to Eindhovens Dagblad, Simons explained: "The manager told me a lot. Positive things, but also things I need to improve. It's fantastic how he sees football, how he wants to make players better. Spurs is the right place for me to develop. It's great that he was honest. As a player, you see a coach more than your family."
The Dutchman added that Frank highlighted areas he must develop but chose to keep those details private. He stressed that the candour from Tottenham's boss was different from what he had previously heard from other managers.
Jamie Carragher also praised the signing on Sky Sports, recalling when his son faced Simons in youth international football. "I watched Xavi Simons play against my son for Holland, and I was close to the pitch. You really get a good feel for a player. He's got great quality, real good ability," Carragher said.
Tottenham's summer business drew positive reviews, with The Athletic ranking Simons 13th among 151 transfers across Europe. Deadline-day arrival Randal Kolo Muani was also rated highly, coming in at 20th.
Frank has said Spurs are building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, with Simons expected to play a central role in their plans for both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
Luis Diaz has made a flying start to life at Bayern Munich after his high-profile move from Liverpool, with the Colombian winger quickly proving why the German champions fought hard to sign him.
Real Madrid's latest teenage sensation, Franco Mastantuono, has been hailed as "a young man with enormous talent" after turning down interest from Liverpool and several Premier League sides to join Xabi Alonso's squad.
Chelsea have gone into the international break unbeaten and sitting second in the Premier League table after collecting seven points from their opening three matches.
Thomas Tuchel has backed Marc Guehi's mentality after the defender's proposed move to Liverpool dramatically collapsed on deadline day, leaving Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner with his captain still in place ahead of their European campaign.
