Chelsea ready Xavi Simons bid as €70m price tag DROPS

Chelsea are set to make their opening offer for RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons imminently, according to a report.

The Blues are ready to seal an eye-catching double swoop for Netherlands internationals Jorrel Hato of Ajax and Leipzig forward Simons. A deal for the former is expected to be only a matter of time, while talks for the latter are not quite as advanced.

However, Chelsea are set to change that shortly by placing a first bid for the 22-year-old. According to Ben Jacobs, the Stamford Bridge club are preparing a formal offer for the Dutchman after positive talks over personal terms.

Simons is prioritising a move to West London over his other suitors, chiefly Bayern. Arsenal also hold an interest but have not made a move for the attacker, whose versatility has made him attractive to Chelsea.

Leipzig are ready to sell their star man, and Chelsea feel that a deal can be done at a significantly reduced price than what was initially expected heading into the summer.

Simons price drops – but Leipzig want sell-on clause

The relationship between the two clubs is said to be excellent, and negotiations are currently led by agent Ali Barat, who maintains close ties with both Chelsea and Leipzig.

The final discussions are therefore expected to proceed relatively smoothly, but Simons will still command a sizeable outlay. Leipzig paid €50 million for him in January and want to make a profit.

Additionally, the Bundesliga side are trying to secure a sell-on clause. Meanwhile, Simons’ price tag has already dropped from around €80m to €70m, and Chelsea feel this figure can be pushed down even further.

The Blues may have to grant Leipzig a percentage of his future fee in exchange for a smaller payment right now. Chelsea are ultimately relaxed about the finances involved as they feel they are still fully compliant with Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

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