Chelsea Eye Xavi Simons Deal as Tyrique George Could Be Key in Swap Agreement
Chelsea are ramping up their summer business as Enzo Maresca enters his second season in charge — and the club’s Champions League return has only intensified their ambitions. Having already lifted the Europa Conference League and the Club World Cup, the Blues are now focused on taking the next step under their new head coach. A major midfield reinforcement could soon be on the cards.
Xavi Simons Identified as Priority Signing
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are in active talks to sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is considered one of the most technically gifted and versatile playmakers in Europe. Simons, who boasts 28 international caps for the Netherlands, would give Maresca a dynamic option capable of operating as a No. 10 or wide forward in his fluid 4-3-3 system.

Leipzig are reluctant to sell one of their star assets, but Chelsea are hopeful that an offer including cash and a player exchange could tempt the Bundesliga side to negotiate before the September 1 deadline.
Tyrique George: Chelsea’s Potential Bargaining Chip
With Leipzig expressing interest in Tyrique George, Chelsea could use the 19-year-old winger in a swap deal to reduce the cash burden of signing Simons. George is highly rated at Cobham but finds himself behind a long list of wide options, especially with the pursuit of Alejandro Garnacho still ongoing.
- George’s 2024/25 Stats:
- Appearances: 26
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 4
- Premier League games: 8

George has already made his European debut and shown flashes of brilliance. However, regular first-team football is what he needs — and a move to Leipzig could provide the perfect development environment, just as it did for Jadon Sancho, Jude Bellingham, and Christopher Nkunku.
Why Chelsea Want Simons
- Position: Attacking midfielder / winger
- Last Season Goals: 11
- Club Appearances for Leipzig: 76
- Total Goals: 21
- Previous Clubs: Barcelona (academy), PSG, PSV
Simons would offer Chelsea creativity, pace, and end product, something the team has often lacked in the final third despite heavy investment. His versatility also allows Maresca tactical flexibility.
ChelseaBrief Thoughts
Chelsea are strategically positioning themselves for both short-term success and long-term squad building. Bringing in Simons — potentially with Tyrique George going the other way — could be a smart deal for all parties involved.
The Blues want two quality players for every position, but they also need to avoid stagnating their young stars. George could thrive in Germany, and if Chelsea include a buy-back clause, they retain future control of a potentially elite talent.
Expect developments on this front in the coming weeks as Chelsea continue to reshape their squad for the challenges of Champions League football and domestic silverware pursuit.