Chelsea are thought to be targeting a move for RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons with the Blues expecting to offload more attacking talent this summer, according to reports. Simons is expected to leave the Bundesliga club after their failure to secure Champions League football for the upcoming season.
The Dutch international had joined RB Leipzig last summer on a permanent basis, with the deal worth an initial £43m, with a further £26m in possible add ons.Simons had spent two seasons on loan at the club from French giants PSG, while the former Barcelona academy prospect had also spent a year at PSV.
The 22-year-old is believed to be open to a move to Chelsea this summer, with the Blues having held initial talks with his representatives.Chelsea have already strengthened heavily in attacking areas during the transfer window, with strikers Joao Pedro and Liam Delap joining for £60m and £30m respectively.
Winger Jamie Gittens also joined from Borussia Dortmund for £55m, while highly rated Brazilian teenager Estevao will arrive from Palmeiras for £29m.As per Telegraph Sport, a move for Simons would likely depend on outgoings from Stamford Bridge this summer.
The Blues have already sold Noni Madueke to Arsenal in a £52m deal earlier this week.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca admitted last month that Christopher Nkunku may leave the club this summer.The Blues appear open to his departure despite signing the 27-year-old on a six-year deal for a hefty £52.7million just two years ago.
Nicolas Jackson has also been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge having dropped down the pecking order.Chelsea insist they are in no rush to sell and value Jackson, who they signed two years ago for £32m, at £100m despite the search to find an upgrade.Raheem Sterling returned to the club this summer following his season-long loan at Arsenal, with Joao Felix back from a spell at AC Milan.Winger Mykhailo Mudryk was last month charged by the Football Association for breaking anti-doping rules following a failed drugs test, with the Ukrainian facing the threat of a four-year ban.
