‘He’s thinking of Arsenal’ — Dutch sensation tipped to ditch European giants as Arteta plans shock move

Harry Watkinson 17 May 2023 11:33 AM

Former PSV Eindhoven manager Aad de Mos has tipped Xavi Simons to join Arsenal this summer, amid rumours linking the midfielder to the Gunners.

The Netherlands international has enjoyed an impressive debut season at PSV after joining from Paris Saint-Germain last summer.

Now, Arsenal are reportedly looking to bring Simons to the Emirates. But, a deal for the 20-year-old will not be simple.

This season, Simons has scored 16 goals in 32 league appearances for PSV, as well as making nine assists. As a result, the youngster has an impressive average of 0.78 goal contributions per match.

Indeed, Simons has quickly garnered a reputation as one of Europe’s rising stars.

Understandably, PSV will do everything they can to keep hold of the Dutchman for another season. His contract with the club is valid until 2027.

However, reports suggest that a deal could be reached for a surprisingly cheap fee of €25m (£21.7m) could convince PSV to sell.

Simons could certainly be an excellent long-term investment for Arsenal. So, it will be interesting to see if they get a deal over the line.

Xavi Simons tipped to join Arsenal

Reports suggest that Simons has recently changed his agent. Now, former PSV boss De Mos has suggested his new representatives have ‘solid connections’ at Arsenal – indicating a switch to the Emirates is likely.

In a recent interview, as relayed by the Daily Mail, De Mos said: “His agent change indicates that he is searching [for a new club].”

“Maybe he’s thinking about Arsenal. His new agents have a lot of contacts there.”

Simons was part of the PSV side that eliminated Arsenal from the Europa League this season and recently starred in their recent cup victory over Ajax.

As reported by TEAMtalk, Arsenal are targeting Simons as they look to improve their midfield ahead of next season.

The Gunners’ first addition of the summer will likely see Declan Rice move across London from West Ham. Rice is tipped to replace Granit Xhaka, who appears destined to return to the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen.

But Arteta also wants more strength in depth and to add another dimension to the Gunners midfield, hence the interest in Simons.

However, as mentioned, the deal will not necessarily be simple. PSG are reported to have a buy-back clause of £10m inserted in his contract with PSV.

The French giants could potentially trigger that clause and scupper Arsenal’s plans. So, it will be interesting to see how this story develops in the coming months.

But, if Arteta gets his man, Simons would be the second PSV star to ditch the Dutch giants for the Premier League in 12 months, after Cody Gakpo left them for Liverpool in January.

Arsenal PSV Eindhoven Xavi Simons