Manchester United have upper hand in Xavi Simons transfer race, it could be key

Manchester United are linked with signing Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Xavi Simons on an initial loan deal.

A recent article from The Sun reports that Manchester United have joined Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig in showing strong interest in PSG’s young star, Xavi Simons. The Mirror have since repeated the information.

While PSG has not yet decided on Simons’ future, it is likely he will leave the Parc des Princes soon, driven by his need for more playing time.

The report indicates that any move would probably be a loan, with an obligation to buy, rather than a permanent transfer. PSG plans to delay selling Simons until after 2024 to avoid PSV Eindhoven’s sell-on clause.

The article also suggests that a permanent transfer would be valued at around £70 million for the talented Dutch player, who recorded one goal and three assists at Euro 2024.

Erik ten Hag has since come out and praised the 21-year-old Dutchman. “I enjoyed Xavi Simons in that game (against England). The drive he has, the passion with which he conquers balls and recognises situations are top,” he said.

“His enormous drive as well. That is almost un-Dutch. I think you can see that he was trained abroad. He almost has a southern European doggedness in his game.”

There are also other clubs who are keeping an eye on Simons this summer, but United could have the upper hand due to a recent move.

United have upper hand

Earlier this week, United confirmed that additions Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake as new assistant coaches in Ten Hag’s setup at Old Trafford.

Van Nistelrooy, a club legend, returned somewhat surprisingly, considering his last job was the head coach at PSV Eindhoven.

However, the 48-year-old joining United could be the key factor in convincing Simons to join since he has previously worked with Van Nistelrooy.

Simons was at PSV during the Dutch coach’s stint and excelled under him, scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists during the 2022/23 campaign.

The talented midfielder hugely praised Van Nistelrooy after his departure from the Eredivisie club.

“Thank you for making me a better player and helping me achieve one of my dreams of making it to the national team. Forever grateful. Good luck in the future, mister!” he wrote on social media.

If the finances in a potential deal work for United, their new coach could be the man to convince Simons to make the move to Old Trafford.

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