Former Barcelona wonderkid makes decision on future after agent meeting with Deco | OneFootball

Former Barcelona youth player Xavi Simons is set to be one of the most prominent names in the current transfer window.

The Dutch attacking midfielder is determined to leave RB Leipzig this summer and is actively seeking a new club, though the move will not be straightforward.

Interestingly, earlier this week, Barcelona sporting director Deco met with Simons’ representatives at a hotel in the Catalan capital, sparking talks of a possible return.

Simons wants the Premier League

However, according to BILD (h/t SPORT), Simons is prioritising a transfer to England due to the financial strength of the clubs, and he already has interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Despite having spoken to his camp, Barcelona have not made any move at this stage. The player’s brother has informed the Catalans of the situation, but all indications point to a move to the Premier League.

Simons was already considered as an option by Barcelona during the previous summer window. The player offered himself to the club, but PSG refused to consider a loan deal with a purchase option and instead sold him to Leipzig.

No return to Barcelona this summer. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Since then, his development has been consistent, and he is viewed as a potential top-level player, drawing significant attention, with RB Leipzig asking for a transfer fee exceeding €75 million.

In recent days, Simons has been working to resolve his future, but Barcelona are currently not planning to make an approach.

The cost of the operation and the player’s profile do not align with the sporting department’s objectives, despite the club’s high regard for Simons.

The Dutchman maintains strong relationships within the Barcelona dressing room and would certainly fit in well, but the club believe this is not the right time for such a move.

Barcelona believe that Simons would fit within their wage structure, but the club have decided to dedicate their financial resources to signing a left-winger with strong one-on-one attacking ability.

The Netherlands international wants his future settled during July, and as such, sees a move to the Premier League as a key step in his development. He believes there will be opportunities to return to Barcelona in the future, which remains his ultimate goal.