Chelsea set to face competition from Man City in race to sign Xavi Simons | OneFootball

Chelsea are set to face serious competition from Manchester City in the race to bring RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons to the Premier League this summer.

According to Sky Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri, City have reignited their interest in the former Barcelona academy gem.

Chelsea have been in talks with Leipzig over a deal for Simons since late July, after making it clear that they intend to add him to their exciting line-up of young talent at Stamford Bridge.

They are firmly ahead of City in the race to sign the ‘exceptional‘ forward, having reached a broad agreement on personal terms.

The Netherlands international was in fine form for Leipzig last season, notching 11 goals and eight assists in 33 games across all competitions.

Chelsea have already bolstered their squad with the arrivals of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens and Estevao Willian.

Each of them has impressed over the past few games, but Chelsea are still in the market for more attacking reinforcements.

Negotiations with Leipzig haven’t been straightforward. Chelsea initially proposed a swap deal involving former Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku.

He’s reportedly open to moving back to Germany, but Leipzig are reluctant to take him on a permanent deal. They’d prefer an initial loan while Chelsea cover some or all of his wages.

Chelsea are reluctant to meet their demands, but City’s interest in Simons could change things.

City have already agreed a deal to send Jack Grealish on loan to Everton. James McAtee and Savinho could follow him through the exit with Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur in talks.

If all three players leave the Etihad Stadium this summer, City will need to bring in reinforcements, and Simons is one of several players on their shortlist.