Manchester United are interested in signing PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder Xavi Simons, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
It was reported earlier this month that the Red Devils had entered the race for the Netherlands international’s signature, and Romano has confirmed that Erik ten Hag’s side are involved in a seven-team transfer battle that also includes Arsenal, Tottenham and Brighton:
🚨 EXCL: Paris Saint-Germain buy back clause for Xavi Simons is just €6m!
It can only be activated in July, from 1 to 31st.
The final decision is ONLY up to the player. He’s waiting to hear from PSG.
🔴 Man Utd, Arsenal, Brighton, Spurs, BVB and Leipzig asked to be informed. pic.twitter.com/PHZfoCnerd
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 21, 2023
While there are some fans on Twitter who are less than enthused with United’s interest in Simons, a significant majority believe the 20-year-old would be a good addition to the squad:
Xavi Simons would be an incredible signing 🤩pic.twitter.com/lrLc5s0rED
— UnitedReds (@UnitedRedscom) June 21, 2023
Too quality baller !!! Would love him at United
— CrotaShadow (@CrotaShadow) June 21, 2023
Please sign this guy.
— Nitin (@nitinnn87) June 21, 2023
Do we really need another technical attacking player?
— The King’s Crown🔰 (@KingCantona77) June 21, 2023
Xavi will be a good signing
— Ibuwarisaw Diepiriye (@IbuwarisawD) June 21, 2023
Better than mason mount
— yawAshezZ (@z_ashez) June 21, 2023
PSG’s presence does complicate United’s pursuit of Simons
As Romano mentions, Paris Saint-Germain can re-sign Simons for just €6m (£5.16m) this summer. He was let go on a free transfer by the Ligue One champions last year but there was a buyback clause included in his contract.
PSG don’t get the final say on whether he returns to France, though; it will be up to the player himself. After a successful season with PSV, where he scored 22 times in all competitions, Simons will want assurances that he will get first-team football if he moves back to his former club.
Ten Hag is likely to be a fan of Simons’ versatility
Considering he has been playing in the Eredivisie, Erik ten Hag is likely the one who has been keeping a close eye on Simons, after having recruited plenty of players from his home country since arriving at Old Trafford.
The PSV star can play right across the front three, as well as a support striker, and that adaptability could have attracted ten Hag, who may look to deploy him in a number of different positions.
