As Barcelona look to strengthen their team for the upcoming season, one of the names that has been linked with the Catalan club in the last few days is that of their former youth academy starlet, Xavi Simons.
The youngster is currently owned by Paris Saint Germain, but has played this season in Germany as he joined RB Leipzig on loan last summer. His performances in Germany have been very impressive, catapulting him to the spotlight in the European market.
Having him in their squad will definitely be a boost for Barcelona, but according to a report from SPORT, the youngster can rejoin the club of his youth if PSG agree to send him on loan. The player himself is keen on a return to the Catalan capital, but PSG might have other plans for him.
PSG currently have two options in regards to the youngster. They are looking to either send him on a loan for the two next seasons, or can transfer him permanently for €60 million. This latter option is already being explored by RB Leipzig, who are also trying to convince Simons to remain at the club permanently.
The midfielder’s entourage is expected to meet with PSG this month, as the player wants to get his future sorted before the UEFA EURO 2024 kicks off. He will not have guaranteed minutes if he remains at PSG next season, but the French club will still offer him the chance to earn his place.
But this option is unlikely to be taken by Simons, especially as he wants to remain a part of a project that will allow him to continue growing at his current pace. He also understands that being a starter at Barcelona is also not guaranteed, especially with the likes of Pedri, Frenkie, Gundogan, Gavi, and a potential new midfield pivot all vying for the midfield positions.
Meanwhile, he is also grateful to Leipzig for having given him the opportunity to grow and shine, and the Germans are also enthusiastic about signing the player, and are open to paying a record transfer fee for his acquisition. Relations between Leipzig and PSG are good, and the former can also agree to pay the full €60 million for him while also allowing the Parisians to keep a percentage of rights on him.
Barcelona have also made an approach towards the player to make their interest known, and Xavi sees the acquisition of Simons in a very positive light, especially as Gavi will not be able to return till the end of this year.
The Catalans hope that the midfielder will assert his determination to play for Barcelona, but ultimately it depends on PSG whether they allow him to join Barcelona on a loan this summer.
