Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has played his part in one top player being totally convinced that a move to Stamford Bridge is the right thing for him this summer.
The Blues have given Maresca a say in the players the club bring in during this transfer window off the back of a very promising first season in charge.
Maresca hinted a new striker was needed straight after the Conference League final, and was handed his number one target in the form of Liam Delap.
With Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and future star Estevao Willian also coming in, there is going to be a fresh look to the Chelsea attack in the 2025/26 campaign.
Photo by Andrew Kearns – CameraSport via Getty ImagesEnzo Maresca has convinced Xavi Simons to join Chelsea
One player who could still be added to that group of players is Xavi Simons, who is currently with the RB Leipzig side as they prepare for the new season.
Chelsea believe Simons’ versatility makes him the perfect addition for Maresca’s side, and he would be replacing the likes of Joao Felix, whose departure has already been confirmed.
The Dutchman has been open to a move to Stamford Bridge as the clubs discuss a potential deal, however the manager’s involvement seems to have made his mind up.
As per SportsZone, Maresca held ‘positive and interesting’ talks with Simons, and an official bid from the Blues is expected in the coming hours.
They said: “Xavi Simons and Chelsea FC have agreed personal terms today. The 22yo Dutch player is now closing in on a move to the Bridge after ‘positive & interesting’ talks with Enzo Maresca about his vision for him and the project. The 1st bid is expected in the next few hours.”
🚨 EXCL. Xavi Simons and Chelsea FC have agreed personal terms today.
The 22yo Dutch player is now closing in on a move to the Bridge after “positive & interesting” talks with Enzo Maresca about his vision for him and the project.
The 1st bid is expected in the next few hours. pic.twitter.com/zND6hPLez3
— SPORTS ZONE (@SportsZone__) July 29, 2025
View Tweet
Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesLeipzig looking at Chelsea man if Simons heads the other way
Leipzig held an interest in Carney Chukwuemeka, however the midfielder is keen on playing for Borussia Dortmund again after his loan there last season.
Now, the Bundesliga side are interested in Christopher Nkunku, another player who the Blues would be happy to part ways with before September’s deadline.
The Frenchman would likely be a positive addition for Leipzig after his very successful time there before he moved to Stamford Bridge.
There were glimpses of what Nkunku can do during the Club World Cup, however the Blues are still keen on a sale this summer, and may be willing to offer a good price if Simons is moving the other way.