Arsenal transfer battle with Chelsea for Bundesliga attacker, with Mikel Arteta 'informed' on forward's future

Published: July 19 2025 | 00:46

Last updated: July 19 2025 | 11:39

Gunners to battle Blues for attacker, with Arteta 'informed' on star’s future

Arsenal are keen on adding attacking depth this summer, but they will reportedly face competition from Chelsea for a forward from the Bundesliga.

Arsenal are said to be braced for competition from Chelsea for the signature of Xavi Simons, with the forward reported to be ready to leave RB Leipzig this summer.

The Gunners managed to secure the signature of Noni Madueke on Friday after agreeing a deal with the Blues worth up to £52m.

Manager Mikel Arteta is still reportedly keen on adding to his offensive ranks, with a deal for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres thought to be at an advanced stage.

It is not surprising that the Arsenal boss has looked to strengthen up front considering his side scored 17 fewer goals than Premier League champions Liverpool last term.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that the Gunners hold an interest in Leipzig attacker Simons, but he also claims that they could face competition from rivals Chelsea for his services.

Would Simons work well at Arsenal?

Simons has predominantly operated from the left for Leipzig, though he has often been given license to roam into central positions, where he can be at his creative best.

The 22-year-old scored 10 goals and provided six assists in the Bundesliga last term, and he would arguably offer a greater threat against low blocks than Arsenal's current left-winger Gabriel Martinelli.

However, there is speculation that Madueke could be earmarked for a place on the left of attack considering the Englishman is unlikely to displace right-winger Bukayo Saka, meaning Simons may face strong competition for a starting spot.

Would Simons work well at Chelsea?

Chelsea have made a number of attacking additions this summer, including the likes of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, who are candidates to play up front.

Simons has previously played as a false nine, but he will find it difficult to break into the team ahead of Delap and Pedro, though he will also find it challenging to claim a place in the Blues' other attacking spots.

Left-winger Jamie Gittens was signed from Borussia Dortmund this summer, and he joins a squad boasting the likes of Pedro Neto and Estevao in wide roles, while Cole Palmer can be pencilled into the starting XI as an attacking midfielder.