‘I wouldn’t rule it out’… Journalist says as Arsenal reach agreement to poach perfect Granit Xhaka replacement after the Dutch playmaker pens pre-contract agreement to join Arsenal

‘I wouldn’t rule out’… Journalist says as Arsenal reach agreement to poach perfect Granit Xhaka replacement after the Dutch playmaker pens pre-contract agreement to join Arsenal

In the upcoming summer transfer window of 2024, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal has emerged as a potential destination for Xavi Simons, a talented Netherlands international playmaker currently plying his trade at Paris Saint-Germain. This intriguing piece of transfer news has been brought to light by the reputable journalist Dean Jones, who delves into the possibility of Simons making a move to Arsenal.

Jones, a well-known and respected figure in sports journalism, suggests that Arsenal is actively seeking to bolster their squad with a creative player, and Simons fits the bill. While acknowledging the interest, Jones remains cautious, expressing that a transfer to Arsenal might be a bit surprising but not entirely implausible.

Adding fuel to the speculation, Bild journalist Christian Falk recently reported that both Arsenal and Bayern Munich have shown keen interest in acquiring the services of Simons, a versatile player who can operate as an attacking midfielder or a winger.

Currently on loan at RB Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain, the 20-year-old has been making waves with impressive performances, tallying five goals and seven assists in 18 Bundesliga matches and contributing two goals and two assists in six UEFA Champions League outings for Leipzig this season.

Despite the buzz around Simons potentially joining Arsenal, Jones sheds light on another perspective, mentioning that Manchester United also holds some interest in the player.

While expressing uncertainty about Simons choosing Manchester United over Arsenal, Jones emphasizes Arsenal’s pursuit of a creative player, stating, “I wouldn’t rule out a move to Arsenal for Xavi Simons because they need another creative player, and they have been looking for that. But I’d be surprised.”

From our viewpoint, the reported interest in Simons by Arsenal raises concerns for Emile Smith Rowe, who is currently grappling with limited playing time.

The 23-year-old, capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or winger, finds himself lower in the pecking order behind Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli.

Introducing Simons into this competitive mix further complicates Smith Rowe’s prospects, casting doubt on his ability to secure valuable playing minutes and make a lasting impression in the team.