Newcastle United Have Set Their Sights On This Bundesliga Playmaker: Decent Fit For Howe? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalists Danny Rust and Dean Jones claimed that Newcastle United have set their sights on Red Bull Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons. It has been mentioned that the Magpies are eager to acquire the services of the Dutch attacker this summer.

Simons’ Impressive Form In German Football

Simons enjoyed a decent campaign at the German club as he produced a handful of promising displays in the final third. The 22-year-old found the back of the net on 11 occasions and earned eight assists in 33 matches for RB Leipzig last season across all competitions.

The Spanish talent deserves a ton of credit for averaging 2.09 shots per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga. He kept 46% of his attempts on target. Simons was even tidy when distributing possession in the final third, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 78.6% in the German top flight (stats via fbref.com).

Simons’ current contract at the Red Bull Arena will expire in the summer of 2027. Hence, the Magpies would have to make a good offer if they are serious about recruiting him in this transfer window.

LEIPZIG, GERMANY – MAY 17: Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig reacts after the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and VfB Stuttgart at Red Bull Arena on May 17, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Will Simons Be A Good Fit For Newcastle United?

Simons is a good runner with the ball at his feet and has got the vision to orchestrate a few decent chances in the final third.

The Dutch talent can strike the ball with power from long range. Simons can contribute by scoring his fair share of goals up top. He is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also operate as a winger on either flank if needed. However, there are some question marks over whether he would be able to adapt to the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Magpies manage to snap him up this off-season.

We can expect Simons to add more firepower to Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s attack. He has what it takes to secure a regular first-team place at the Tyneside club next season.

At 22, Simons has the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. Therefore, the Spanish playmaker would be a great fit for the Magpies this summer. However, Howe needs to give Simons some time before he can unlock the best out of the gifted attacker at St. James’ Park.