TOTTENHAM SIGN RB LEIPZIG MIDFIELDER XAVI SIMONS FOR £51.8M
The 22-year-old, who was on the radar of several top European clubs this summer, described the move as “a dream come true” after completing his medical and sealing the switch to north London.
Simons leaves Leipzig with an impressive record of 22 goals and 24 assists in 78 games. He initially joined the Bundesliga side on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 before making the transfer permanent earlier this year.
On the international stage, Simons has quickly established himself as a key option for the Netherlands, scoring five times in 28 appearances since debuting at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
How will Simons fit in at Spurs?
Thomas Frank, who took charge of Tottenham this summer, is known for his tactical versatility. In just three matches he has already alternated between a 5-3-2 system, used in the Super Cup against PSG, and his more familiar 4-3-3 setup in the Premier League.
Simons is expected to flourish in the latter formation, most naturally operating from the left side of the attack where he can cut inside onto his stronger right foot. In the Bundesliga last season, around 75% of his minutes came on the left wing, though he has also featured centrally and on the right when required.
At Leipzig, coach Marco Rose experimented with him in deeper roles, often within a 4-4-2 or 4-2-2-2 “box midfield”, meaning he will need a period of adjustment to Frank’s preferred system.
Expert views on Simons
Former Premier League coach Edu Rubio praised the midfielder’s qualities:
“Simons has excellent passing range and combines it with a fantastic ability to carry the ball at speed, which makes him a huge threat on the counter. He contributes goals, works hard defensively, and presses aggressively — though his weaker foot can let him down at times. He’ll need to adapt to the physical demands of English football, but he is a modern attacker with enormous potential.”
Player and manager reaction
Simons himself spoke of his excitement:
“I’m really happy to be here. It’s a huge club and, after meeting the coach, I felt straight away this was the right step for me. I can’t wait to get started.”
Manager Thomas Frank added:
“Xavi is a fantastic addition to our squad. Despite being just 22, he already has top-level experience in European and international football. He’ll give us creativity, energy, and goals.”
Spurs’ summer business
Simons becomes Tottenham’s third major signing of the window, following the arrivals of João Palhinha and Mohammed Kudus.
The north London side had previously tried and failed to secure Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest, while another target, Eberechi Eze, opted to join Arsenal instead. Chelsea also explored a deal for Simons earlier this summer but are now set to finalise a £40m move for Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho instead.
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