Report: Chelsea consider high-profile swap deal to reshape attacking options | OneFootball

Chelsea Weigh Swap Deal for Xavi Simons and Nkunku Return

According to The Guardian, Chelsea are in “talks with RB Leipzig over a potential swap deal for Xavi Simons that could lead to Christopher Nkunku returning to the German club.” Leipzig are keen to re-sign Nkunku as a replacement for Benjamin Šeško, who joined Manchester United for £73.7 million.

Nkunku, signed by Chelsea in 2023 for £52 million, has “failed to settle in west London” and could be used to offset Simons’ price. The Netherlands international joined Leipzig from PSG in January for €50 million (£43 million) and was expected to cost about €70 million (£61 million), but Chelsea value Nkunku at £40 million and hope to reduce the cash outlay.

Transfer Domino Effect in Progress

Negotiations remain ongoing, with The Guardian noting Chelsea may still need to “pay a sizeable fee on top for the 22-year-old, who can play in a number of attacking positions.” Leipzig’s interest extends beyond Simons — Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott is reportedly on their radar.

Photo: IMAGO

Meanwhile, Chelsea are maintaining talks with Manchester United for Alejandro Garnacho and are prepared to sell Nicolas Jackson to balance the books. Newcastle United are monitoring Jackson after missing out on Šeško and other targets.

Nicolas Jackson Nears Stamford Bridge Exit

Jackson has dropped down Chelsea’s pecking order following the arrivals of Liam Delap and João Pedro. The Guardian reports that he “trained alone on Friday after informing Chelsea that he would like to move”, with Newcastle and AC Milan both showing interest.

Chelsea initially valued Jackson at £80 million but could accept around £65 million. Both he and Nkunku were left out of Friday’s friendly against Bayer Leverkusen.

Implications for Chelsea’s Squad Strategy

This potential Nkunku-Simons swap highlights Chelsea’s determination to overhaul their attacking options. However, with defensive gaps still evident, the lack of movement for reinforcements could be a calculated gamble heading into the new season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan perspective, the potential arrival of Xavi Simons feels like a bold but necessary move. Nkunku’s talent has never been in doubt, yet his inability to consistently impact games in the Premier League means a change could benefit both parties. Simons offers versatility, creativity, and a high work rate — attributes Chelsea have lacked in their attacking midfield options.

However, there are legitimate concerns. Losing both Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson in one window could be a lot of change in the forward line, particularly if new signings take time to adapt. Chelsea supporters will be hoping that Enzo Maresca’s system can integrate Simons quickly, allowing the attack to function more fluidly than last season.

Financially, using Nkunku as part of the deal is a smart way to manage costs under FFP constraints, but fans will expect the club to reinvest wisely in other key areas — especially central defence.

Ultimately, this move will be judged on Simons’ ability to deliver immediately. If he thrives, Chelsea could have a future star in their ranks. If not, it may go down as another high-profile gamble in a period where stability is badly needed at Stamford Bridge.