In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey stated that on-loan Red Bull Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons wants to join Barcelona this summer. It is understood that the Catalan club could face competition in the form of Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea and Manchester City in the race to land the Dutch attacker, who is currently playing on loan from Paris Saint-Germain.
Simons’ Impressive Loan Spell In Spanish Football
Simons has experienced a productive loan spell at the Red Bull Arena after putting in a string of impressive displays for the German club in the final third. The 21-year-old has banged in ten goals and secured 15 assists in 43 matches for RB Leipzig this season across all fronts.
The Amsterdam-born talent has been an excellent performer in the opposition half as he is averaging 2.5 shots, 2.5 key passes and 2.6 dribbles per game in Bundesliga. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from midfield based on his pass completion rate of 82% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Should Barcelona Boss Xavi Move In For Simons This Summer?
Simons can shoot the ball with power and accuracy from long range and has got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the final third. The Dutch sensation is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and has done well to add a lot of goals and assists to his game this season.
We can expect Simons to bring more firepower to Barcelona’s attack if Xavi can somehow devise a way to bring him to the Nou Camp later this summer. The gifted playmaker is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also function as a winger on either flank if needed.
Simons is good enough to nail down a regular starting spot at the Catalan club next season. At 21, he has the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. Thus, Barca would be wise to move in for the Dutch talent when the transfer window reopens at the end of this campaign.
