RB Leipzig star in London as Chelsea and Tottenham battle for £60m Netherlands international

Xavi Simons has landed in London to hold talks about his future as Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur prepare to go head-to-head for his signature before the transfer window closes.

The 22-year-old Netherlands international has been excused from RB Leipzig training, with sources in Germany confirming the Bundesliga club has given him permission to explore a Premier League move.

Leipzig value Simons at around £60 million, and it appears increasingly likely that a tug of war between the two London clubs will decide where he plays next season. Chelsea have been monitoring his situation closely but are yet to table a formal offer, while Spurs are understood to have already held positive discussions.

Simons has become one of the most sought-after young players in Europe after a standout season in the Bundesliga. His creativity, versatility, and attacking output have made him a natural target for Premier League sides looking to add flair and dynamism to their midfields. Capable of playing as a No 10, on the wing, or in deeper midfield roles, he offers the kind of flexibility modern managers demand.

For Tottenham, the timing is critical. Ange Postecoglou has made clear he wants at least two more additions — a winger and a centre-back — before the window shuts. Spurs have already invested heavily in their squad, but Simons would represent a marquee signing to strengthen their push for Champions League football.

Chelsea, meanwhile, remain in rebuilding mode under Enzo Maresca. Having offloaded several players this summer, they are balancing squad trimming with targeted reinforcements. Simons, with his age profile and potential resale value, fits neatly into Chelsea’s recruitment strategy.

The player himself faces a significant decision. He joined Leipzig on loan from Paris Saint-Germain last season and made the move permanent earlier this summer, but speculation over his long-term future has never subsided. Both Chelsea and Spurs can offer the glamour of the Premier League, though each presents a different project.

Chelsea’s pitch is expected to focus on their long-term vision, youth-driven squad, and opportunity for Simons to establish himself as the creative heartbeat of the team. Spurs, on the other hand, can point to a settled manager, regular Champions League contention, and a prominent role in an attacking system tailored to his strengths.

Financially, Leipzig are holding firm. They want a package in the region of £60m, a fee that would place Simons among the biggest transfers of the summer. With both London clubs possessing the resources to meet that price, negotiations may come down to structure, add-ons, and the player’s preference.

For fans, the battle is already heating up. Chelsea supporters see Simons as the missing spark to revive their midfield, while Spurs fans are urging their club to show ambition and close a deal quickly. The London derby rivalry, usually fought on the pitch, now looks set to spill into the boardrooms as the two clubs fight for one of Europe’s brightest talents.

As the transfer clock ticks, Xavi Simons has become the name dominating conversations across London. Whether he chooses Stamford Bridge or the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, his arrival would mark one of the defining moves of the summer window.