Chelsea Given Xavi Simons Warning as RB Leipzig Dig In Over Dutch Star

The summer transfer window has already thrown up its fair share of twists and turns, but one saga that refuses to go away is Chelsea’s pursuit of Xavi Simons. The Stamford Bridge side have made it clear they see the Dutch international as a statement signing for the new season, yet RB Leipzig are equally firm in their stance: Simons will only be allowed to leave if the price is right.

It’s a story that blends ambition, financial muscle, and a young star who feels ready to take the next step in his career. But while Chelsea are circling, Leipzig’s message is simple—there’s no need to sell unless the Blues meet their hefty valuation.

RB Leipzig Issue Chelsea a Clear Warning on Xavi Simons

When Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer sat down with German outlet Bild, he didn’t sugarcoat the situation. Asked about Simons’ future, his response was as direct as it gets: the Bundesliga club have no obligation to part ways with the 21-year-old talent.

“That’s not a must,” Schäfer said. “We know his great ambitions to play in a top league for a title contender. He wants to prove himself at the highest level. And if it makes economic sense, we’re open. But only then. If it doesn’t make financial sense for us, we look forward to another season with this outstanding player.”

In other words, Chelsea—or any club for that matter—will have to dig deep. Leipzig are believed to be holding out for at least €70 million (£60m/$82m), a figure that underlines just how highly they value the Dutch attacker.

Why Chelsea Want Xavi Simons

For Chelsea, the attraction is obvious. Simons is one of Europe’s brightest young forwards, capable of playing across the attacking line, but most dangerous when drifting in from the left or operating behind a striker. Still only 21, he combines flair with maturity and has already built an impressive résumé with spells at PSG, PSV, and Leipzig.

The Blues’ summer business has been busy, but they are still searching for that extra spark in attack. Simons fits the profile perfectly: young, versatile, marketable, and with a hunger to prove himself on the biggest stage. In many ways, he embodies the type of signing Chelsea’s new project has tried to prioritise—emerging talent with superstar potential.

Simons himself has hinted at his desire to move on. Leipzig’s failure to qualify for the Champions League last season left him frustrated, and he is eager to test himself in a more competitive environment. A switch to Stamford Bridge would tick a lot of boxes: regular Premier League football, a chance to fight for major trophies, and the opportunity to play a central role in an ambitious long-term project.

The Nkunku Puzzle Complicating Matters

Xavi Simons Chelsea GFX

Ironically, the biggest stumbling block in Chelsea’s bid to land Simons might be one of their own players. Christopher Nkunku’s situation is closely tied to the Simons deal. Leipzig had hoped to smooth the process by taking Nkunku back on loan, giving them a ready-made replacement while cashing in on Simons.

But Chelsea aren’t playing ball. Instead of a loan, the London club want a permanent sale, valuing Nkunku at around €40m (£34m/$47m). That figure has put off Bayern Munich, who were exploring a move for the French forward, and it has also cooled Leipzig’s interest.

Nkunku, for his part, isn’t keen on a temporary switch either. Having only joined Chelsea last year and signed a contract until 2029, he wants to fight for his place rather than return to familiar Bundesliga surroundings. It leaves the deal for Simons in a precarious position, dependent on whether Chelsea can find another way to bridge Leipzig’s demands.

Leipzig’s Strong Position

From Leipzig’s perspective, the stance makes sense. Simons has three years left on his contract, he is one of the most exciting players in their squad, and he has already shown he can deliver consistently in the Bundesliga.

Selling him would bring in a healthy profit, but keeping him for another year isn’t exactly a bad outcome either. In fact, Schäfer’s comments highlight the confidence Leipzig have in their ability to retain him. Unlike many selling clubs, they aren’t desperate for funds. That means Chelsea will have to match the valuation or risk losing out altogether.

Chelsea’s Balancing Act

For Chelsea, this pursuit comes at a tricky moment. The club has spent heavily in recent windows, and balancing the books has become a key part of their strategy. They are actively trying to offload fringe players to free up space and raise cash, but negotiating high fees for outgoings while also targeting a €70m-plus player is no easy task.

At the same time, Chelsea know the clock is ticking. The longer they wait, the greater the risk that another European giant swoops in. Manchester City and Bayern Munich have already shown interest in Simons, and if Chelsea hesitate, they could easily be beaten to the punch.

What Happens Next?

It feels like the next few weeks will be decisive. Chelsea are expected to test Leipzig’s resolve with a formal bid soon, but whether it reaches the magic €70m figure remains to be seen. If they can’t—or won’t—match that valuation, the chances of prising Simons away diminish quickly.

For the player, the situation is both exciting and uncertain. He has made it clear he wants to step up, but he may have to wait if the right offer doesn’t arrive. Leipzig will not sell on the cheap, and Chelsea will have to decide just how much they value the Dutch star.

Final Thoughts

The chase for Xavi Simons has all the hallmarks of a classic transfer battle: a talented young player ready for the next level, a buying club desperate to add firepower, and a selling club standing firm with a price tag that reflects their bargaining power.

Chelsea have been given a clear warning. If they want Simons, they’ll need to pay up. Anything less, and Leipzig are more than happy to keep one of Europe’s brightest stars for another season.

As it stands, the ball is in Chelsea’s court—and with the window edging closer to its conclusion, the next move will be crucial.