Tottenham secure Xavi Simons signing from RB Leipzig
Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of Netherlands international Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, handing new manager Thomas Frank a major boost in midfield options.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, long admired across Europe, joins Spurs on a long-term contract for a reported £51.8 million ($69.9m) plus add-ons, subject to international clearance and a work permit.
Tottenham had been searching for a creative midfielder throughout the summer transfer window after failing in bids for Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest and Eberechi Eze, who instead moved from Crystal Palace to Arsenal.
Simons’ arrival is therefore seen as a crucial addition for Spurs, who, alongside Arsenal and champions Liverpool, have won their opening two matches of the new Premier League season.
Speaking after completing his move, Simons said:
“I’m really happy and can’t wait to get going. I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time. It’s a great club and when I met the head coach, I knew straight away this was the right place for me. I will bring flair to the team but also hard work and discipline. I want to win for the team and the fans.”
Manager Thomas Frank praised the midfielder’s creativity and versatility:
“Xavi has proven his ability to score and create goals, whether from the number 10 role or from the left. He has a great eye for unlocking defences, and I know he will add to the strong spirit already in the squad.”
Tottenham’s need for midfield reinforcements was heightened by the long-term knee injury to James Maddison and the absence of Dejan Kulusevski, also sidelined with a knee problem.
A graduate of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, Simons joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 before making his mark on loan at PSV Eindhoven, where he scored 22 goals in the 2022/23 season. He later moved to RB Leipzig, registering another 22 goals in 78 appearances, before securing his permanent transfer earlier this year.
Simons, who will wear the No. 7 shirt vacated by former captain Son Heung-min, is expected to be unveiled to fans at Saturday’s home fixture against Bournemouth.
