Erik ten Hag adds Xavi Simons to summer wish-list as Manchester United lines up a move for the Dutchman

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has taken a keen interest on Paris Saint-Germain’s Xavi Simons, who impressed on loan at RB Leipzig last season.

The midfielder also bagged three assists and one goal at the ongoing UEFA Euro 2024 but the Netherlands were eliminated in the semi-finals by England. Now, with the new season just around the corner, Simons will weigh his options.

Xavi Simons: Manchester United in hot pursuit

Ten Hag’s Dutch revolution at Old Trafford seems to be gathering pace this summer, with Xavi Simons the latest name on a Dutch-dominant transfer wish-list. As per reports, Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt and Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee have already given the go-ahead to move to Manchester United.

Now, latest reports suggest ten Hag has his eyes fixed on Xavi Simons and sees him as the ideal addition to the Red Devils’ midfield. A player blessed with the ability to distribute the ball well, dribble and carry, and also shoot with power, Simons would help United out of their current slump.

He made 43 appearances across competitions for RB Leipzig last season, scoring 10 goals and providing 15 assists as he continues to grow. Simons has now returned to parent club PSG but concerns of manager Luis Enrique wanting him could turn his head to other suitors.

As things stand, Bayern Munich and Leipzig are also interested in signing Simons, and Manchester United will have to fend them off to get ahead in the race. Simons reportedly has a massive sell-on favouring former club PSV Eindhoven which expires at the end of 2024, meaning clubs would likely come in for a loan move first.

Where would Xavi Simons fit in?

Mainly an attack-minded player, Xavi Simons has played some of his best football as an attacking midfielder last season, with some spells on the wings as well.

Ten Hag will look to maintain the same continuity in the 21-year-old’s career trajectory and will play him in favoured roles. Simons is predominantly right-footed and would mostly play in an advanced position, with the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo anchoring the midfield behind him.

Standing at almost six feet tall, the Dutchman will need to gain some muscle but already has all the tools to deal with the physicality of the Premier League. It remains to be seen how this saga pans out.

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