Chelsea are after Xavi Simons, and now they've got just what Leipzig need to unlock the deal

After signing a permanent contract with RB Leipzig a few months ago, Xavi Simons already wants out. The Dutch midfielder has expressed his desire to leave Red Bull Arena in this transfer window and it looks increasingly likely that his wish will be granted.

One of the key reasons behind Simons' decision is Leipzig's failure to qualify for any European competition next season - a first in nearly a decade for the club. That absence has played a major role in prompting the 22-year-old to seek a new challenge, ideally in England.

Hey, Xavi, how would you like to join World Champions?

Although Bayern Munich have also shown interest, Simons is determined to test himself in what many consider the world's most competitive league, where suitors are already lining up. While Arsenal continue to admire him from a distance, Chelsea have taken concrete action and officially launched their pursuit of the Dutch star.

The Saxony-based club won't stand in the way of the Dutch international if he pushes for a move, but they have set a firm price tag. Leipzig purchased Simons from Paris Saint-Germain for €50 million in January and are now demanding at least €70 million just six months later.

That figure is not beyond Chelsea's reach, but the newly crowned Club World Cup champions may have an ace up their sleeve to either lower the asking price or accelerate the talks and his name is Carney Chukwuemeka. The English midfielder, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, remains a highly sought-after prospect in the Bundesliga. Dortmund would love to have him back, but they may now face competition from Leipzig.

According to transfer expert Florian Plettenberg, Leipzig have initiated talks with Chelsea over a potential transfer for the 21-year-old. During those discussions, the London club reportedly informed Leipzig of their intent to sign Simons.

In Chelsea's already crowded midfield, Chukwuemeka is considered surplus to requirements, and the Blues are open to letting him go - though this time, only on a permanent basis. Since arriving from Aston Villa three years ago, he has made just 32 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea, but he may now play a key role in unlocking the Simons deal.

Despite Chelsea's seemingly endless influx of new signings - almost every other day - it appears another attacking midfielder wouldn't go amiss. The club currently lacks a proper backup for Cole Palmer, making a player like Xavi Simons a valuable addition.