Tottenham Secure Breakthrough in Xavi Simons Transfer Saga, hijacks move from Chelsea

In a dramatic twist in the summer transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur have surged ahead in the race to sign RB Leipzig’s star attacking midfielder Xavi Simons, with renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming that Spurs have agreed a €60m fee with the Bundesliga club.

The 22-year-old Dutch international, who has been a top target for Chelsea throughout the transfer period, now appears destined for North London, with a medical and final personal terms expected to be finalized today.

Romano, known for his reliable transfer updates and iconic “Here we go!” catchphrase, broke the news early this morning via a post on X, stating, “Tottenham agree €60m fee with RB Leipzig for Xavi Simons! Official bid accepted, green light after #THFC sent formal bid following player’s encouragement. Spurs want deal done today also on player side + medical in the next hours. Here we go, expected soo.”

Simons, who has dazzled with 11 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances for Leipzig last season, has been at the center of a protracted transfer saga.

Chelsea’s pursuit of the versatile playmaker, capable of operating as an attacking midfielder or winger, had been ongoing for weeks, with personal terms reportedly agreed with the player as early as July.

However, negotiations between Chelsea and Leipzig stalled over the transfer fee, with the Blues aiming for a £50m deal while Leipzig held firm at £60m. This hesitation appears to have opened the door for Tottenham to swoop in with a decisive bid.

Romano’s updates throughout the week highlighted the intense competition for Simons. On August 28, he noted that Simons had arrived in London to clarify his future, with Tottenham making official contact with Leipzig that day, while Chelsea remained in talks but had yet to reach an agreement.

Leipzig’s director, Rouven Schröder, had earlier hinted at the possibility of a late move, stating, “Xavi Simons is still with us. But the market is still open, you never know what might happen,” and confirming Simons’ ambition to join Chelsea.

However, Tottenham’s swift action appears to have shifted the momentum. The transfer is a significant coup for Spurs, who have been looking to bolster their attacking options under manager Ange Postecoglou.

Simons’ versatility, technical ability, and impressive record—65 goals and 53 assists in 178 games across his club career—make him a perfect fit for Tottenham’s high-pressing, dynamic style.

His 28 caps for the Netherlands further underline his potential to become a cornerstone of the squad.

For Chelsea, the development is a blow to their ambitious transfer plans under manager Enzo Maresca. The Blues have been linked with multiple attackers, including Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, but Simons was seen as a priority target to revamp their attack.

Reports suggested that Chelsea’s ability to finalize the deal hinged on offloading Christopher Nkunku, with talks ongoing for a potential move to AC Milan. With the transfer window nearing its close, Chelsea now face a race against time to secure alternative targets.

Romano also clarified earlier reports of Tottenham attempting to hijack Chelsea’s move, shutting down speculation on August 22 that Spurs had made an earlier bid. However, the latest developments confirm that Tottenham’s persistence has paid off, leaving Chelsea fans frustrated and Spurs supporters buzzing with excitement.

As the transfer window edges toward its deadline, all eyes will be on Tottenham to see if they can finalize the deal for Simons in the coming hours. If Romano’s “Here we go” is confirmed, Spurs will have pulled off one of the most dramatic signings of the summer, while Chelsea must regroup and reassess their options before the window slams shut.

Source: Fabrizio Romano