Transfer Talk: Man City eye Simons to replace De Bruyne

Posted Saturday, September 14, 2024 by ESPN

Manchester City are considering Paris Saint-Germain and Netherlands midfielder Xavi Simons as a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne in the summer, but they could face pressure from Liverpool and Bayern Munich, according to Christian Falk.

The 21-year-old has been in impressive form since joining RB Leipzig on loan once again from PSG, adding a goal and an assist in his first three matches this season to his impressive haul of ten goals and 15 assists in 2023-24.

Simons, however, is said to see his future away from the French capital, and would prefer a move to the Premier League.

Simons is valued at around €80m, with his existing deal set to run out in 2027. Leipzig would also like to keep Simons on a permanent basis, but they're unlikely to be able to afford the Dutchman long-term.

Simons has played either as an attacking midfielder or winger, and his form is not going unnoticed across Europe. With Bayern among his list of admirers, the German side are keen to land a young midfielder to lead their midfield for the next few seasons.

Simons contributed a goal contribution every 140 minutes last season, form that, if he can continue, will no doubt interest a number of clubs at the end of the season.

RB Leipzig midfielder Xavi Simons has been linked to Manchester City, Liverpool and Bayern Munich.