For many weeks, it has been believed that the only club Xavi Simons wanted to join was Chelsea and a move to Stamford Bridge felt like an inevitability. But it does not take long for things to change in football and to be fair, the Blues' attempts to sign him have dragged on for quite a bit. Is that enough to change the Dutchman's mind?
Tottenham Hotspur have made signing a new number 10 their priority. And Simons seems to be on their radar. Spurs have either submitted a bid, or are planning to, depending on which report you come across.
In fact, things seem to be advancing pretty quickly, the complete opposite of what the Chelsea transfer saga has looked like. And the latest update might worry fans who are hoping to see him arrive at Stamford Bridge before deadline day.
As reported by Ben Jacobs, Tottenham are advancing with Simons, who is in London to try and clarify his future. He has been giving priority to Chelsea all summer after agreeing terms, but the clubs are yet to agree on a fee. The Dutchman is also open to Spurs. RB Leipzig authorised travel, knowing he wants a Premier League move.
Xavi Simons stance on joining Tottenham revealed as Chelsea talks drag
So, it looks like Simons has opened the door to a potential Tottenham Hotspur move as well. And to be honest, nobody can question that, considering how long Chelsea have taken to get this deal over the line.
It remains to be seen if Tottenham's interest in Simons results in Chelsea accelerating their own plans to sign him. They are believed to have agreed on a deal involving Christopher Nkunku and AC Milan, which might help get things over the finish line. Or, it is very possible that they have turned their attention elsewhere.
Suddenly, the recent speculation linking them with Fermin Lopez might make a lot more sense. Do Chelsea believe that the Spaniard is a better option than Simons? Or do they view him as someone who can be brought in for a lower transfer fee?
One thing is clear, with just days left in the summer transfer window, there are still a lot of moving pieces. Let's just hope that Chelsea are able to finish it on a high note, with a few top quality signings, whoever they may turn out to be.