Xavi Simons 'in London for transfer talks' as Tottenham eye Chelsea hijack

Xavi Simons has touched down in London ahead of a proposed move to the Premier League, according to reports in Germany - with Tottenham Hotspur now fancied to hijack Chelsea’s move.

Winger Simons, 22, was given permission to miss RB Leipzig’s training session on Thursday morning as he jetted into the capital ahead of talks.

And Spurs, who were last week gazumped to the signing for Eberechi Eze by neighbours Arsenal, look increasingly likely to land their top alternative despite previous strong interest from the Blues.

Leipzig have confirmed that Simons has been “released from training indefinitely for future discussions” though the Bundesliga side are also yet to receive an official offer, while Simons’ representatives must still finalise details around the wide man’s contract.

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Leipzig will also be holding out for a fee of about £65 million for the Netherlands international, who has two years remaining on his current deal.

After Benjamin Sesko’s £74 million move to Manchester United, Simons could become Leipzig’s second major sale this summer.

Spurs remain keen on strengthening their creative options because of the season-long injury to James Maddison, while Dejan Kulusevski is also still sidelined.

Should Simons head to north London rather than West, Chelsea are reportedly set to focus on bringing in Fermin Lopez from Barcelona - though their priority before Monday afternoon’s deadline remains offloading a host of unwanted stars.

Up to nine players who are not part of Enzo Maresca’s plans could be moved on, including England internationals Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, who has interest from former manager Frank Lampard at Coventry.

Chelsea have already made close to £290m on sales this summer. Their departures include Noni Madueke joining Arsenal for £48 million, Joao Felix leaving for Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr for £26 million and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall signing for Everton in a £25 million switch, with Christopher Nkunku expected to seal a switch to AC Milan imminently.

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