Report: Liverpool versus Man Utd in Battle for Xavi Simons | OneFootball

Man Utd Monitoring Xavi Simons Amid Summer Rebuild

Man Utd’s summer strategy takes shape

Manchester United are preparing for a critical summer rebuild, with the club’s recruitment team actively scouting European talent in anticipation of significant squad changes. Currently languishing in 14th in the Premier League and having narrowly edged past Lyon in a dramatic 5-4 Europa League quarter-final clash after extra time, the need for reinforcements is increasingly apparent.

As part of their broader scouting mission, Christopher Vivell – appointed Director of Professional Football at United in July 2024 – was present at Wolfsburg’s 3-2 defeat to RB Leipzig, observing more than just Leipzig’s in-form striker Benjamin Šeško.

Xavi Simons emerges as a key target

According to Daily Mail and Sport BILD, United are also keeping close tabs on Xavi Simons, the 21-year-old Dutch international and teammate of Šeško at RB Leipzig. The versatile midfielder has become a name of interest at Old Trafford, with club insiders confirming that Simons fits the profile preferred by manager Rúben Amorim.

Simons’ current form, however, is under scrutiny. Despite scoring twice in the aforementioned Wolfsburg fixture, his overall contribution raised questions. “He doesn’t always play well for the team and has serious deficiencies in defensive play,” Sport BILD noted, suggesting there is caution within United’s recruitment staff.

There’s also a financial aspect to consider. RB Leipzig, who acquired Simons from PSG for €50 million in January, are expected to demand around €70 million this summer. While United are willing to invest, their financial power hinges heavily on securing Champions League football next season — a feat that would net them approximately €116 million in revenue, per Daily Mail projections.

Liverpool’s ongoing interest complicates matters

Liverpool have been tracking Simons throughout the season, and their continued presence complicates United’s hopes of securing his signature. With 26 caps for the Netherlands and the ability to operate in multiple attacking roles, Simons is seen as a high-upside prospect for any top side.

For United, this means acting swiftly and decisively. The club is expected to continue monitoring Simons through to the end of the season, aware that any drop in form or surge in competition could tip the scales against them.

Other attacking options under consideration

Xavi Simons isn’t the only name on United’s summer shortlist. Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap is considered a primary target. Should Ipswich be relegated, the 22-year-old forward would be available for around €35 million — a price United find appealing. However, Arsenal are also circling, and competition is expected to be fierce.

Additional forward options include Wolverhampton’s Matheus Cunha (25), Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo (25), and Šeško himself — who has long been admired by United scouts. The club’s strategy remains flexible, but there is a clear intent to add youthful attacking talent that aligns with Amorim’s tactical philosophy.

With significant groundwork underway and eyes firmly fixed on Champions League qualification, Manchester United’s summer business is beginning to take shape. Xavi Simons could be central to those plans — if they can beat both the price tag and their Premier League rivals to him.

The radar chart presents Xavi Simons’ performance metrics over the past 365 days, measured across 2,390 minutes of play. It compares him to other attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe, categorised into attacking, possession, and defending attributes.

In attacking areas, Simons impresses with high percentile ranks for assists (82), expected assisted goals (xAG – 82), and shot-creating actions (81), reflecting his creative influence in the final third. His non-penalty goals also rate highly at 72, showing he contributes directly to scoring opportunities, though his non-penalty expected goals (npxG) sits lower at 36, suggesting he’s outperforming his xG.

In possession, Simons is notably strong in progressive carries (90), successful take-ons (89), and touches (66), demonstrating his confidence and ability to advance the ball effectively. His pass completion (66) and progressive passes (90) indicate strong distribution, although slightly lower figures for passes attempted (66) and progressive passes received (53) suggest room for greater involvement in deeper build-up phases.

Defensively, he offers mixed results. Simons ranks well for blocks (78) and aerials won (87), but is less consistent in areas like tackles and interceptions (46) and clearances (20), which supports existing critiques about his defensive contribution.

Overall, the chart underscores Simons’ value as a creative and progressive attacker with elite ball-carrying and chance-creating abilities, though his defensive metrics highlight areas for improvement if he is to succeed in a more balanced tactical system.