Manchester City are now weighing up whether to hijack their Premier League rivals’ move for a “game-changer”, according to a report.
Man City looking to sign new attackers before deadline
Despite already bringing in Rayan Cherki this summer, Man City may be tempted to bring in more attacking options before the transfer deadline, given that Jack Grealish joined Everton on a season-long loan deal, and there is speculation surrounding Savinho’s future.
Indeed, Tottenham Hotspur have been named as potential suitors for the winger, and Fabrizio Romano has revealed Pep Guardiola would like to bring in another Brazilian forward as a replacement.
However, there is widespread interest in Rodrygo, with Liverpool also considering a move, alongside the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta’s side very serious about signing the forward.
As such, it could be difficult for Man City to win the race for the Real Madrid star, but he is not the only attacker on their shortlist, with a report from talkSPORT revealing they are now considering a stunning hijack of Chelsea’s deal for Xavi Simons.
Simons has struck an agreement on personal terms over a move to Stamford Bridge, but given that a club-to-club deal has not been finalised, there is still time for City to make a late move for the RB Leipzig star, who is valued at £60m.
The west Londoners are hoping to pay just over £50m, meaning the deal has now stalled, potentially opening the door for the Dutchman to move to the Etihad Stadium.
"Game-changer" Simons could be exciting addition for City
Since making the move to Germany, the former Paris Saint-Germain man has been a reliable source of goals and assists for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, showcasing that he could now be ready to test himself in the Premier League.
Season
Goals
Assists
2023-24
8
13
2024-25
10
7
The Amsterdam-born attacker is also a versatile player, capable of playing on both wings and through the middle, indicating that he could be a like-for-like replacement for Jack Grealish.
Once lauded as a “game-changer” by ESPN’s Tom Hamilton, Simons could be an exciting addition for City, but they have a difficult decision on their hands when it comes to deciding whether to pursue the Netherlands international or Rodrygo.
The Brazil international is thought to be Guardiola’s “dream target”, and he is more experienced at the top level, having scored 25 Champions League goals.
However, given that a deal for Rodrygo could amount to £86m, it would be more financially prudent to sign Simons, and there is every indication the RB Leipzig man could be just as successful at the Etihad Stadium.
