Which position Chelsea target Xavi Simons played for three quarters of last season

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Chelsea supporters are anxiously waiting to hear developments regarding the club’s pursuit to sign RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons.

Even though the Blues have already strengthened this summer with some eye-catching additions, Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, 22, is strongly linked with a potential move to Stamford Bridge.

Reports earlier this week claimed that Chelsea and Simons were close to agreeing personal terms, which would then kickstart transfer discussions with Leipzig. Afterwards, it was reported that Chelsea are confident of signing Simons this summer, who’s rated at £60m.

There has been radio silence in the transfer rumour mill in the past couple of days. However, journalist Fabrizio Romano claims via X that Chelsea are still in talks about signing Simons, plus they are still actively chasing Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.

• READ MORE: What Mauricio Pochettino said about Chelsea target Xavi Simons when he was 17 now looks very interesting

Xavi Simons starred on the left wing last season

If Chelsea get a deal for Simons over the line, it will be interesting to see where he fits into Enzo Maresca’s plans because he’s extremely versatile. The Netherlands international has proven in his career he can shine in central or wide attacking positions behind a striker.

Therefore, it’s intriguing to see he spent the majority of the 2024/25 campaign playing on the left wing for Leipzig.

Opta Analyst records the data that Simons spent three quarters of his playing time playing on the left for Leipzig last season (75%).

Back in 2023, Simons admitted he prefers playing as a No 10 as a central playmaker, but he’s happy to fill in anywhere.

From Chelsea’s perspective, it’s very encouraging to see that Simons is used to playing on the left flank. On paper, they need another option in the wide position to compete with Jamie Gittens next season.

The Blues have Cole Palmer as the chief creator in the central pocket, while Enzo Fernandez can play there as well, so Simons definitely feels like an option for the left wing. Of course, it would come with a licence to roam infield and drift into central pockets to influence play.

Xavi Simons ranked higher than Cole Palmer in key statistic last season

During Opta’s full breakdown of Chelsea target Simons, they flagged another eye-catching piece of data.

It is claimed that Simons averaged 70.9 touches per 90 minutes in the German Bundesliga last season for Leipzig. In contrast, Chelsea talisman Palmer averaged 56.5 touches per 90 minutes in the Premier League.

The thought of Simons and Palmer linking up in the same Blues XI next season should frighten opposition teams. As for Chelsea forwards Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, they could have a field day playing in front of them.