Xavi Simons remains one of the major names on Barcelona's agenda this summer. The Dutch midfielder, trained at La Masia, is a priority for Deco and has Hansi Flick's approval. The club believes his profile fits perfectly into the new project due to his youth, talent, and versatility.
The operation, however, won't be easy at all. RB Leipzig has valued the footballer at €70 million and shows no intention of lowering that figure. An amount that, as of today, is above what Barça is willing to take on.
Deco has already conveyed the club's position. Above that figure, negotiations won't move forward under any circumstances. If Leipzig doesn't give in, Barça will consider alternatives, although Xavi Simons is the chosen one.
Deco's plan
From the club's sporting management, they're working on alternative formulas to get closer to the goal. One of the options on the table is to propose a loan with a mandatory purchase option in installments. Another possibility would be to include a player in the operation to reduce the final cost.
Deco has already held meetings with the footballer's agent, making clear Barça's interest and financial conditions. Xavi's circle views his return to Barcelona favorably, where he keeps personal and sporting ties. The player's willingness is total, but the key will be convincing Leipzig.
Flick has also expressed his desire to have Simons as soon as possible. He considers him an ideal profile to strengthen the attacking midfield, with the ability to play inside and on the wing. His versatility and training in Barça's style make him a highly valuable asset.
Returning home
Simons has made it clear that he's open to returning to the club where he was trained from a very young age. His move to PSG was painful for the fans, but now, with more experience and maturity, his return would be very well received. Players like Balde and Lamine Yamal have already discussed it internally.
Barça believes this could be the ideal moment to bring him back. At 22 years old, with experience in Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and Champions League, and still room to grow. He would be a signing that would fit both sportingly and emotionally.
Leipzig, however, is playing hard. They know there are more clubs interested, including Chelsea, which would be willing to reach €70 million. The direct competition with the Premier League complicates Barça's options if the operation doesn't speed up.
The price
Barça doesn't want to repeat past mistakes by paying above the real market value. Deco believes €60 million is already a high figure, though manageable for such a complete profile. But he's not willing to strain the club's finances for a single player.
Simons's circle expects moves in the coming days. If Barça doesn't make a move now, it could lose the emotional advantage it has over other teams. The player has asked for clarity and decisiveness, knowing that time is pressing and the market doesn't wait.
For now, everything depends on Leipzig's position. If they lower their demands or accept an intermediate formula, Barça will go all in. If not, the signing will be put on hold… although Xavi Simons has already made it clear where he wants to be.
