Xavi Simons Alerts Arsenal with Transfer Request Amid Potential £25m Hijack

Arsenal transfer news is buzzing with the latest updates from the Emirates Stadium, including a detailed look at potential deals for Xavi Simons.

As the second week of the summer transfer window wraps up, Arsenal have yet to complete any significant business. While this isn’t a huge surprise, there is a lot of work to be done.

Had their first-choice striker, Benjamin Sesko, come through, there might have been more progress to report. However, with Euro 2024 ongoing, major developments are unlikely before the tournament concludes.

The Gunners have a strategic plan for the upcoming months to refine their squad. Midfielders, left-backs, and forwards are on the agenda. But securing top talent is challenging, given the competition in the market.

Simons’ Transfer Request

Xavi Simons has informed Paris Saint-Germain of his desire to leave this summer. According to Fabrizio Romano, Simons has made it clear that he wants to move on loan.

However, he won’t make a final decision until after Euro 2024, with Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig currently leading the race for his signature. Barcelona is also in the mix, given his history with their academy.

Simons has long been a target for Arsenal, though recent discussions about a move to the Emirates have quieted.

football.london says: Simons embodies many qualities that fit Arsenal’s style. His flair, creativity, and confidence are exceptional and align well with Arteta’s vision.

Capable of playing across the frontline, Simons would be ideal for either wing or as a No.10. The right-side, assuming Reiss Nelson departs, could use bolstering, and Simons might also be deployed as a false nine, although that’s not the perfect solution.

Arsenal has more pressing needs than Simons, so their lack of interest is understandable. However, it’s worth considering the possibilities, as a future deal shouldn’t be entirely ruled out.

Potential David Hijack

Chelsea have reportedly held talks with Lille forward Jonathan David, as per The Athletic. The Blues are eager to strengthen their frontline and have turned to David after other targets, like Jhon Duran and Samu Omodorion, have fallen through.

Arsenal has previously been linked with David due to his impressive scoring record in France. He has netted 71 goals and provided 11 assists in 146 Ligue 1 matches since moving from Belgium in 2020, though 14 of those goals were penalties.

Recently, the Lille striker was offered to several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool. With just one year left on his contract, he could be available for as little as £25 million.

football.london says: If Simons represents a potential future for Arsenal, David is more of a past consideration. Back in 2022, a deal for David would have been plausible, although Lille demanded a high price.

Now, Arsenal’s needs have shifted. They require a primary striker, while David seems more suited as a secondary option. His numbers are solid, and his link-up play is strong, making him a good fit with Arsenal’s current forwards, but he doesn’t offer the distinct advantage they need.

Arsenal has been targeting larger strikers, and David doesn’t fit that profile. Despite his skills as a finisher, Arsenal’s current strategy doesn’t align with pursuing this deal, even at a favorable price.