Chelsea transfer round-up: Xavi Simons deal edges closer as Blues prepare to make opening bid

Chelsea are preparing an opening bid for Xavi Simons, talkSPORT can reveal.

It follows positive talks with Leipzig, which have accelerated in the last few days.

Terms are already in place with the 22-year-old, who joined Leipzig permanently from Paris Saint-Germain in January for €50m plus €30m in add-ons.

Not all of those add-ons have been paid, which is why Leipzig are prepared to sanction a sale for around €70m.

Chelsea even believe a deal might be possible for south of this number, still allowing Leipzig to make a significant profit.

Key to any deal will be the structure not just the overall valuation, with Leipzig wanting to include a sell-on clause.

Agent Ali Barat is at the centre of negotiations and has a strong relationship with both clubs.

Chelsea view Xavi as a strong fit due to his versatility. Signing the Dutch international could allow Joao Pedro to play more as a No.9, especially if Nicolas Jackson departs.

And Xavi is comfortable on either flank. Chelsea still want more left-sided attacking options even after the arrival of Jamie Gittens from Dortmund.

This is because Jadon Sancho wasn’t signed from Manchester United, Mykhailo Mudryk is unavailable as he fights an FA doping charge, Geovany Quenda doesn’t arrive from Sporting until next summer and there is a chance Tyrique George could be loaned to aid his development.

Arsenal have also considered a move for Xavi but are yet to make contact with Leipzig.

Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta is currently focused on Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze instead as Arsenal assess whether a deal is possible outside of his £68m release clause.

Bayern have also held several calls with the player, but it’s believed he is prioritising a move to the Premier League.

How can Chelsea afford Xavi?

Chelsea feel PSR compliant, allowing them to spend big on Xavi and add fellow Dutchman Jorrel Hato from Ajax.

An agreement in principle for Hato is not far off with the deal likely to exceed €40m. It is expected to be finalised this week.

Chelsea have also sold Joao Felix to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr for an initial €30m, with add-ons potentially taking the sale as high as €50m.

However, suggestions Al-Nassr could prize Marc Cucurella away are wide of the mark.

Chelsea will not entertain offers for Cucurella, nor does the Spain international wish to move to Saudi at this stage in his career.