Chelsea leading Arsenal in race to sign £61m attacker

Chelsea are leading Arsenal in the race to sign RB Leipzig attacker Xavi Simons this summer, according to Ben Jacobs.

The Dutchman had a good 2024/25 campaign with the Bundesliga giants, making 19 goal contributions in all competitions.

He was injured for a couple of months in the season, but still ended the campaign on a good note. He could now leave for a bigger challenge.

Jacobs claim that Chelsea are progressing with talks to land the Netherlands international, and have made formal contact with Leipzig as well.

Leipzig are aiming to secure around £61 million for the wide attacker, but the Blues hope to sign him for less amid interest from other elite clubs.

Arsenal are also keen on the player, but have not made any movement.

Simons was recently on the radar of Bayern Munich, but he has turned them down due to his preference to move to the Premier League this summer.

Manchester United have been long-term admirers, but have not made a move, having opted to sign Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.