Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their interest in Xavi Simons, the dynamic Dutch midfielder currently impressing on loan at Leipzig from PSG.

LEIPZIG, GERMANY - JANUARY 13: Xavi Simons of Leipzig in action during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and Eintracht Frankfurt at Red Bull Arena on January 13, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – JANUARY 13: Xavi Simons of Leipzig in action during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and Eintracht Frankfurt at Red Bull Arena on January 13, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Arsenal‘s pursuit of Xavi Simons, currently on loan at Leipzig from PSG, has reportedly intensified as they seek a viable back-up for Bukayo Saka.

The Dutch midfielder, known for his impressive assists and goal-scoring capabilities, has become a prime target for the Gunners, who are reportedly leading the race against other European giants, including Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.

Xavi Simons, a former Barcelona youth player, has been making waves in the Bundesliga.

At only 20 years old, he has emerged as one of the standout performers for Leipzig, contributing significantly with nine goals and six assists in 26 games this season. This remarkable form has not only put him on Arsenal‘s radar once again but has also drawn interest from other top clubs.

However, according to reports from ‘Footballtransfers’, Arsenal are in a more advanced position to secure his services.

Leaving Barça‘s La Masia academy in 2019, he was one of the most high-profile departures the club had seen.

PSV's Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons of PSV Eindhoven celebrates after winning the KNVB Cup final between PSV Eindhoven and Ajax Amsterdam at the Stadium de Kuip in Rotterdam on April 30, 2023. (Photo by ROBIN VAN LONKHUIJSEN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)
PSV’s Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons of PSV Eindhoven celebrates after winning the KNVB Cup final between PSV Eindhoven and Ajax Amsterdam at the Stadium de Kuip in Rotterdam on April 30, 2023. (Photo by ROBIN VAN LONKHUIJSEN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

At the time, the move to PSG was driven more by sporting reasons than financial incentives. Ferney Agudelo, a scout close to Simons, highlighted that the decision was made to find a more suitable sporting project, given that Barça did not guarantee him a first-team debut before he turned 18.

Despite rejoining PSG last summer, Simons’ future at the French club remains uncertain.

His return was under a buy-back clause from PSV, and it’s unclear if he sees his long-term future with the Parisians.

This situation has opened the door for Arsenal, who are eager to strengthen their attacking options.

For Arsenal, Simons represents an ideal back-up for Saka. His versatility in midfield and his ability to create and score goals align well with the needs of Mikel Arteta’s squad.

While he may not be the typical centre-forward Arteta is searching for, his additional goal threat could be a significant boost for the Gunners, who have been lacking in this area recently.

Furthermore, Arsenal are considering other options, including Pedro Neto from Wolves.

However, Simons, with his 21 assists and 28 goals in the last 18 months, stands out as the prime candidate.