Xavi Simons has emerged as the top transfer target. At this time, he is on loan with German club RB Leipzig. Given the depth he will need to possess when coming out of such an experienced platform, and especially paired with young talents like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard.
This may make Mikel Arteta the “most likely” destination. But Liverpool instead views him as an integral part of their midfield rebuilding process, contrary to their entry into the high-intensity style under new manager Arne Slot. As per Echo, Liverpool decided to sign Simons after the Euro 2024.
PSG, Simons’ parent club, values him at more than £84m and could keep him as long as coach Luis Enrique wishes to. It will greatly depend on playing time, suitability for the team and opportunities for his development.
Tactical Analysis: Xavi Simons Fit at Arsenal and Liverpool
Arsenal
Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal plays a possession football style with fluid movement and creative play. He can play as a No. 10, winger, or deeper midfielder and will fit into the philosophy. His dribbling and spatial awareness will make it easier for Arsenal to break through compact defenses, especially in games where opponents look to sit deep. Simons would also provide rotational depth to the squad. So, players like Ødegaard and Saka can take rest for bigger games.
Liverpool
He would relish playing in the middle trident with Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister at Liverpool, in the aggressive, possession-based approach that Arne Slot uses with teams. His ability to read lines, his vision, makes him so effective in a transition-heavy system, and his versatility ensures tactical flexibility and may even be deployed in wider positions for greater attacking thrust to Liverpool’s wings.
Both teams have something special in them. Long-term stability, youth base would work with his growth curve at Arsenal but, Liverpool needs that dynamic midfielder and so would give him the starring role straight away.
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