Chelsea sent clear message about Xavi Simons' attitude after dressing room unrest

Chelsea's quest for fresh attacking talent seems to have led them to Red Bull Leipzig's Dutch talent, Xavi Simons. However, some fans might be concerned about the player's conduct.

Simons appears eager to secure a transfer this summer, and it's reported that direct discussions betweenthe versatile forward and Chelsea have now occurred, with negotiations progressing smoothly and personal terms unlikely to pose any issues. The Blues are keen and are also believed towant to finalise the deal swiftly.

Simons, who was part of Barcelona's youth setup, contributed to 19 goals in 33 matches last season, netting 11 times. Arsenal have previously expressed interest in the player, while Manchester United have also been linked with a move for the attacking midfielder.

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Despite the Dutch international's impressive attacking prowess, his temperament has been called into question over the years. German publication, Sport Bild, even alleged that Simons was at the heart of issues in the Leipzig dressing room last season.

The 22-year-old's supposed large ego, along with his refusal to accept advice and criticism, were among the problems reportedly troubling the Dutch winger's team-mates after he was given the captain's armband, reports the Mirror.

After a series of loan spells at Leipzig, Simons finally made a permanent switch to the Bundesliga from Paris Saint-Germain, becoming Leipzig's top earner with a £44million move in January of this year.

Bild has reported that Simons has not quite met expectations as Leipzig ended up seventh in the Bundesliga last season. The German outlet suggests he hasn't shown the prowess that was evident during his loan spell at the Red Bull club throughout 2023 and 2024.

The publication even pointed to a baseball cap sporting Simons' initials and number as evidence of a player who's perhaps too invested in his own brand. They also hinted that Simons, along with his extensive team of advisors, selectively engages with media outlets and sponsorship commitments as they please despite the club's wishes.

However, Simons himself, speaking before the close of the German season, seemed to acknowledge his shortcomings with a touch of humility. "Everyone has to improve – including me," he admitted to Sport Bild in May.

"But at the end of the day, we're all human. Not everything is perfect all the time. But we work hard to make the fans happy in the end. That's the process and it's getting better. It's not about Xavi. It's about RB Leipzig. We have to solve things together."

Simons could be available for Chelsea at a price of around £60m, but the deal is made more complex by a sell-on clause PSG included in their agreement with Leipzig, which would reduce the fee the Bundesliga club receives.

While Simons might bring a creative edge to Chelsea's attack, Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen on overhauling his forward line this summer.

Liam Delap and Joao Pedro have already been secured for a joint fee of £90m. However, with any squad overhaul, there are bound to be some casualties, and Nicolas Jackson is one Chelsea player who might find himself on the chopping block amidst the club's offensive reshuffle.

The forward could potentially be moved on, and with his preference to remain in the Premier League, United have been suggested as a possible destination for the 24-year-old.