‘BIG TURNAROUND’ in Xavi Simons’ future creates dream scenario for Arsenal

Robin Bairner

24 Apr 2024 09:05 BST
4 min read

Arsenal’s hopes of landing PSG star Xavi Simons appear to have received a long-term boost thanks to news coming from Germany.

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Simons has been a target for Gunners boss Mikel Arteta for many months, yet PSG frustrated the London side’s hopes of landing the 21-year-old by exercising a buy-back clause in the versatile attacker’s deal with PSV.

He was subsequently sent on loan to RB Leipzig, where he has enjoyed a stellar campaign, enhancing his reputation with seven goals and 12 assists in the Bundesliga.

STATS

Xavi Simons

AM (CRL)

RB Leipzig

Xavi Simons

AM (CRL)

RB Leipzig

29

Games
7

Goals
12

Assists

Although Arsenal have retained an interest, it had been anticipated that he would return to PSG at the end of the season to help fill the void that will be left why Kylian Mbappe departs the club to sign for Real Madrid at the end of his contract.

But it appears there has been a sudden shift in plans.

Sport Bild reports: “Internally at RB Leipzig, it is assumed there will be another year on loan.”

© IMAGO - Xavi Simons celebrates with Dani Olmo

This hinges on Simons’ current club reaching the Champions League, which looks extremely likely with the Bundesliga liable to land a bonus fifth spot in the competition.

Head coach Marco Rose has hinted at this possibility, too.

Speaking to Sky Sport Deutschland, he said: “He would also be a very important player for me next year. We don't have complete control over it. The important thing is that we qualify for the Champions League. Then we want to shape the discussions in the direction of keeping the boy here for another year or two.

“Xavi gives the impression that he feels comfortable here, is developing well and that overall it is a good environment for him. Accordingly, I am still very positive that we will see him with us next year.”

Boost for Arsenal?

PSG’s willingness to loan Simons out again suggests that even now, there is not a place in their long-term plans for him. While this is surprising, it represents excellent news for Arsenal.

Simons does not appear to be in a hurry to return to the Ligue 1 club, and it may well be that he provides some leverage to the Gunners to make an offer in 12 months.

Arteta is likely to retain an interest. One of the facets that he loves about Simons is his ability to play in any position across the attack, meaning that if the Arsenal manager has doubts about any of his forwards he represents a viable transfer option.