Latest developments
- Reports claim Liverpool are pursuing PSG's Xavi Simons.
- Arne Slot was interested in the Dutchman in the summer.
- Simons is in his second season of a two-year loan to RB Leipzig.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): The Athletic is trustworthy
Having been monitoring him in the summer, Liverpool are interested in signing Xavi Simons in summer 2025, once his current loan to RB Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain expires.
This news was reported by The Athletic and shared by David Ornstein, one of the UK's most “in-the-know” journalists on transfer matters.
Value (4/5): Close to valuation
After originally selling him to PSV Eindhoven, PSG bought Simons back after his value rose significantly, and instantly loaned him to Leipzig, where his valuation has risen further, while he has become one of the Netherlands' most important players.
Once he returns to Paris, the French side intend to sell him for upwards of £66 million, close to his current market valuation. It's a high price, but a fair one by modern standards.
Suitability (3.5/5): Is he right for Slot?
At his best in an attacking midfield role, Simons has spent about as much time this season out wide on the left in a 4-4-2 formation at Leipzig. Either way, it seems difficult to get the best out of him in a 4-3-3 which Liverpool often use.
However, Arne Slot has also introduced a 4-2-3-1 formation this season, and if he is a Simons fan, then he would surely want him at the centre of that attacking three, behind a centre-forward?
Upgrade? (3/5): Favoured over Szoboszlai?
Plenty of Liverpool fans have been underwhelmed by Dominik Szoboszlai, while others believe he has many strong qualities.
Judging who is the better player is very tough to call, especially as their attacking styles are so different, with Simons willing to be more direct with his running, but the Hungarian the more technically gifted.
Logic (4/5): If it ain't broke…
Liverpool are the strong favourites to lift the 2024/25 Premier League title, and bidding £66 million for any player would be a sure sign that they aren't resting on their laurels, though that money would be better spent on a Salah replacement.
For Simons, it seems clear that PSG have no intention to play him, so a move away to a club of a similar stature seems logical. Slot seems to rate him, which could be enough to persuade him to head to Anfield.
Whisper+ verdict: 18/25
A reputable source, a high but not crazy price and a player the manager admires – there is enough in this story for Liverpool fans to be hopeful, even if another attacking midfielder isn't there top summer priority.
