Chelsea plan decisive Xavi Simons transfer move as key moment reached

Chelsea are preparing an opening offer for Xavi Simons following progress in talks with RB Leipzig over a move for the Dutchman, football.london understands.

The Blues opened talks with the 22-year-old's representatives last week, with 'super agent' Ali Barat right at the heart of negotiations. A few days later, after personal terms were broadly agreed between Chelsea and Simons, the Blues started dialogue with Leipzig over a fee for the Netherlands international.

Bayern Munich let their interest be known to Leipzig and Simons' entourage, but the Barcelona academy product has his heart set on a move to Stamford Bridge, sources close to the player told football.london. After days locked in talks with Leipzig, Chelsea are now preparing an opening offer for Simons as they look to bring him in time for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign.

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Discussions with Leipzig have advanced in recent days and Chelsea are looking to strike while the iron is hot. Simons, who was a keen follower of the Blues growing up, is currently with the Leipzig squad as they put in the work behind closed doors to prepare for the new season. The Dutchman provided two assists for the Germans as they ran riot against Toulouse at the weekend.

Chelsea will be boosted by the imminent sale of Joao Felix to Al-Nassr. The 25-year-old Portugal international is set to join the Saudi Pro League club on a two-year contract, football.london understands, after an agreement was reached with the Blues over a £43.7million total package.

Elsewhere, Chelsea remain in advanced talks with Ajax over a move for Jorrel Hato. The Blues are keen on adding the 19-year-old defender to their ranks as they seek cover for left-back as well as the centre of defence. Hato has agreed on personal terms with Chelsea and is now waiting on the two clubs to reach an agreement.

Ajax are open to selling the Netherlands defender but will only do so for the right price, while Chelsea are confident a deal can be struck.