Chelsea transfer news: Blues 'advancing in talks' to recruit Arsenal-linked Leipzig attacker

Chelsea have reportedly stepped up their pursuit to sign RB Leipzig attacker Xavi Simons.

The Dutchman joined Leipzig on a permanent deal from Paris Saint-Germain in January following an initial 18-month loan spell with the German club.

Simons has registered 21 goals and 23 assists in 76 competitive appearances for the Red Bulls, including 10 goals and seven assists in 25 Bundesliga matches in the 2024-25 campaign.

However, his efforts were not enough to secure European qualification, as Leipzig finished one point shy of the top six in seventh position.

Simons has since indicated that he wants to leave the Bundesliga side following their failure to secure European football for the upcoming campaign.

Chelsea advancing in Simons pursuit

In recent days, Chelsea have emerged as one of the main contenders to sign the Netherlands international before the transfer window shuts on September 1.

It was recently reported that the Blues have made direct contact with Leipzig over a potential deal for the 22-year-old. 

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are making progress in talks to agree personal terms with Simons. 

The West London club are keen to get personal terms quickly agreed, so they can turn their focus to striking an agreement with Leipzig. 

From the player's perspective, Simons is believed to be 'keen' to join Enzo Maresca's side this summer, although he has also been linked to Chelsea's London rivals Arsenal. 

Do Chelsea need to sign Simons this summer?

Chelsea have already strengthened their wide options this summer, having recruited Estevao and Jamie Gittens from Palmeiras and Borussia Dortmund respectively.

However, the Blues recently sold Noni Madueke to Arsenal, and are likely to offload Joao Felix and Raheem Sterling before the transfer window shuts.

As a result, Chelsea may feel they need to recruit a new winger ahead of the 2025-26 season, although there may be a temptation to field Simons in the number 10 position.

If Maresca opts to use Simons behind the striker, Chelsea talisman Cole Palmer would have to be content with operating off the right flank on a regular basis.

Simons would undoubtedly be a strong addition to the Chelsea squad, and at 22, he has the potential to grow into one of Europe's standout attackers.