Chelsea are on the verge of completing a major deal for RB Leipzig attacker Xavi Simons, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano declaring the move “CLOSE!” – potentially part of a double signing alongside Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.
Romano: Chelsea Close to Sealing Xavi Simons Transfer in Double Dutch Swoop
Romano delivered the significant update on Monday via his DAZN video segment, confirming intense negotiations between Chelsea and Leipzig are nearing a positive conclusion.
His emphatic statement signals that the Blues expect to soon secure the versatile 22-year-old Dutch international.
Simons, who scored 11 goals and provided 8 assists last season, has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Chelsea. The club views him as an ideal attacking addition due to his ability to play across the front line or as a number ten in Enzo Maresca’s system.
Leipzig is seeking a package worth around €70 million (£61.2 million), with talks focusing on the payment structure and potential inclusion of a sell-on clause.
Simons’ potential arrival coincides with Chelsea finalizing a move for 19-year-old Ajax centre-back Jorrel Hato.
Negotiations for Hato are also in the “very final stages,” raising the possibility of a coordinated double announcement to excite fans.
Chelsea’s spending power received a significant lift from Joao Felix’s imminent £43.7 million transfer to Al-Nassr, facilitating their push for Simons and Hato.
The club remains confident of complying with Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) despite the potential outlay.
While Simons featured for Leipzig in a pre-season friendly over the weekend showcasing his focus with two assists Hato has been excluded from Ajax’s matchday squads amid the advanced transfer talks.
Chelsea aim to complete both signings swiftly to integrate them into Maresca’s squad before their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace on August 17.
