Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of Dutch winger Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig in a deal worth around €60 million, securing the highly-rated 22-year-old on a long-term contract.
Sources confirmed that Simons, who arrived in London on Thursday to finalise the move after receiving permission from Leipzig, will wear the No.7 shirt at Tottenham. The Netherlands international has been one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents, having impressed with his performances in the Bundesliga and on the international stage.
Simons joined Leipzig in 2023, initially on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, before making the switch permanent in January of last season. During his time at the club, he scored 22 goals and provided 24 assists in 78 appearances, playing a key role in their German Super Cup triumph in the 2023/24 season. A product of both Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy and PSG’s youth setup, Simons further enhanced his reputation with a goal for the Netherlands against England in the Euro 2024 semi-final.
Speaking after completing his move, Simons expressed his delight at joining Tottenham. “I’m really happy and can’t wait to get going. I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time,” he said. “It’s a great club and when I met the head coach I knew straight away that this was the right place for me. I will bring flair to the team but also hard work and discipline. I want to do everything I can to win, for the team and also for the fans.”
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank, who has guided Spurs to a perfect start in the Premier League, welcomed the arrival of the winger. “I’m really pleased we have brought Xavi in — he is a great addition to the squad,” Frank said. “He is still young, however he already has good experience and, over the past few years, has played a lot of games at the top level. Xavi has proven his ability to get goals and assists, both from the number 10 position and left-wing. He also has a great eye for his team-mates in terms of unlocking defences, and I know he will come in and be part of a good team that is already working hard together.”
Simons’ arrival comes after Tottenham beat off competition from other Premier League clubs. Sources revealed that Chelsea monitored him closely throughout the summer but chose not to make a formal bid, instead completing a £40m move for Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United. Spurs also missed out on other attacking midfield targets, including Morgan Gibbs-White, who extended his contract with Nottingham Forest, and Eberechi Eze, who left Crystal Palace for Arsenal after agreeing terms with Tottenham.
The signing is expected to strengthen Tottenham’s attack, particularly following James Maddison’s anterior cruciate ligament injury earlier this month, which ruled him out for several months. Simons will play a vital role as Thomas Frank looks to build on his strong start, having masterminded a statement 2-0 victory over Manchester City last weekend.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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