For weeks, Chelsea fans have been anticipating a move for Xavi Simons. Yet, with merely a week left in the window, there is still no sign of the transfer going through anytime soon. As things stand, it has been made clear that it all depends on a Christopher Nkunku or Nicolas Jackson exit, which is another complicated matter in itself.
Chelsea could certainly do with someone like Simons right now. Cole Palmer appeared to injure himself in the pre-match warm-up against West Ham United and the initial expectation is that he will be out of action for four to six weeks. Naturally, that is a worry for the Blues, who do not have an outright replacement for one of the best players on the planet.
Simons could come in and play that role. Whether he would be as effective or not is a different matter altogether. But at least he has the characteristics to fit in there. The recent speculation coming out of Germany does create further clouds of doubt over the move though.
As reported by BILD, Simons has reached an agreement with Chelsea, but the club has yet to make an official offer to RB Leipzig. There has only been loose communication between the clubs so far. And the English side have repeatedly made it clear that a transfer is only possible if one of their players is exchanged in return.
Worrying Xavi Simons to Chelsea transfer news emerges in Germany
Until now, it was believed that reaching an agreement with RB Leipzig would not be a problem once an Nkunku or Jackson exit goes through. Now, there are some doubts regarding that as well, if the report is on the mark.
Of course, someone like Simons has the potential to be a great long-term signing for Chelsea. That being said, the club are in a sticky spot when it comes to balancing the books.
So, if a move does not happen despite the months of speculation, do not be surprised. It would come as a major disappointment though. At this point, the signing of Alejandro Garnacho feels like the likelier of the two.