Newcastle Could Rescue a Disastrous Transfer Window by Hijacking Chelsea’s Move for Xavi Simons
This summer hasn’t gone to plan for Newcastle United, or their deep-pocketed owners. Benjamin Šeško’s decision to reject a move to St James’ Park capped off a series of frustrating transfer failures. But with about three weeks left in the window, there’s still time to shift the narrative. And the ideal way to do it? Snatching Chelsea’s intended target right from under their noses.
A Struggling Window
While coastal rivals have revamped their squads and look set for a comfortable Premier League return, Newcastle have spent just £52 million, making them one of the stingiest clubs in the division. Despite trying, Eddie Howe has seen top options like Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Hugo Ekitike, and James Trafford slip away.
The Simons Opportunity
Enter Xavi Simons, widely admired after his dramatic Euro 2024 semi-final heroics and highly rated for his creativity and passing. His stats speak volumes: averaging 2.5 passes into the opposition’s penalty area per game, placing him among the top seven percent of players across Europe’s elite leagues, on par with the likes of Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes.
Despite Chelsea pursuing him, negotiations are reportedly shaky: the club want to pay under £50 million, whereas RB Leipzig values him closer to £60 million. Simons has even traveled for Leipzig’s preseason without firm clarity on his future.
Newcastle’s Edge
Chelsea’s overcrowded attacking squad, with several new signings and players like Cole Palmer firmly established, might limit Simons’s playing opportunities. Newcastle, by contrast, can offer Champions League football and a clearer path to regular starts. It’s a compelling alternative.
With Chelsea’s tough stance already costing them other potential signings, like Mike Maignan, Newcastle have a real shot to pounce, match Leipzig’s valuation, and turn what’s been a dismal summer into a statement signing.