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Manchester United have reportedly been working on sealing a deal for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Xavi Simons.
Simons is believed to be a target for United in their efforts to bolster Erik ten Hag’s options in the middle of the park ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 season.
The Netherlands international has appeared on the shortlist of many top European sides this summer after his heroics last term at RB Leipzig, which he followed up with a superb Euro 2024 campaign before the Dutch were knocked out by England in the semi-final of the tournament.
Simons registered 10 goals and 13 assists in all competitions during his time at Leipzig. In addition to United, he has also been linked to Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Barcelona. Leipzig are also keen on bringing him back to the Red Bull Arena.
A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Red Devils were “hot on the heels” of Simons, who seems to have a big transfer decision to make in the coming weeks.
It’s understood that Bayern and Leipzig are leading the race to land the 21-year-old but Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano relayed that Erik ten Hag’s side are refusing to back down from the race to secure the player’s services.
French publication L’Equipe have now confirmed that United are indeed pursuing Simons.
The news outlet adds that United “have been working on an arrival” of the PSG star since last summer when they saw an offer for him worth around €50 million prove unsuccessful.
L’Equipe note that United’s Dutch coaches are hopeful that a transfer for the talismanic Simons will get over the line.
The 20-time English champions of course recently brought in three Dutch coaches: former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, ex-Go Ahead Eagles manager Rene Hake and Jelle ten Rouwelaar, who succeeded Richard Hartis as the first team’s goalkeeping coach.
Interestingly, Simons spent the 2022/23 season on loan at PSV Eindhoven under the tutelage of Van Nistelrooy. A reunion may certainly appeal to the player.
Other midfielders mentioned to be on United’s radar include Manuel Ugarte (PSG), Joao Neves (Benfica) and Adrien Rabiot (free agent).
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