Arsenal now ‘interested’ in 20-year-old gem Tuchel loves, but face one big problem

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Arsenal are reportedly considering a move for winger Xavi Simons, who is on loan at RB Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain.

The Dutch sensation was at PSV Eindhoven last season, and was outstanding as Arsenal fell to a defeat against his side in the Europa League group stage.

Simons has excelled on loan at Leipzig this season, with six goals and nine assists across 26 games in all competitions including the Champions League.

Arsenal are now one of a number of teams keeping an eye on Simons, but there is a big stumbling block which could prevent any deal.

Arsenal are interested in Xavi Simons

A report from German outlet SPORTBILD has now claimed that Arsenal are “interested” in a move for the 20-year-old at the end of the season, should his loan at Leipzig not be extended.

However, if his loan is extended for another year before then, it would rule him out of a transfer away in the summer window.

PSG activated their buyback clause to tie Simons up for the long-term, and it could take an astronomical fee to prise him away from the French side. However, a loan deal for next season may not be entirely out of the question should he return to Paris this summer.

Xavi Simons would be excellent for Arsenal

The winger could be exactly what Arsenal need in the summer. With the club also targeting Michael Olise, it is clear that Mikel Arteta wants to add speed to his attack.

Simons would arrive as a young rising star who can play in multiple attacking positions, and add immense creativity, technical ability and pace to a front line which is currently struggling for goals.

Current Bayern Munich manager, and former PSG head coach Thomas Tuchel recently highlighted what makes Simons so special.

“I had him (at PSG) as a very young youth player and it was clear that he had a lot of potential,” he stated in September 2023.

“He made it to the national team through the Dutch league. He is having a very good phase. He has a clear position, which is helping him.

“He is technically strong, calm on the ball and good in front of goal.”

Tuchel’s comments show how highly-rated Simons is at the top level, and he is only going to get better.

A deal does look difficult, but if Arsenal can pull it off, they will be landing a gem.