European rivals now join the race for Arteta's elusive attacking target
Arsenal’s efforts to sign Xavi Simons have taken a fresh twist, with reports in Italy revealing that Inter Milan have entered direct talks with the player’s agent.
The Serie A champions, who are seeking to reinforce their attacking options this summer, have now placed Simons on their shortlist alongside Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman.
Inter’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, is said to be leading the negotiations, which reportedly took place last week.
Simons, who spent last season on loan at RB Leipzig, is expected to leave again this summer, either permanently or on another temporary deal.
Leipzig are keen to resolve his future swiftly as the Dutchman is entering the final two years of his contract. The Bundesliga club are understood to be open to a sale, with some outlets suggesting a gentleman’s agreement could see him move for around £60 million.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a strong campaign in Germany, recording 11 goals and 8 assists across all competitions despite missing two months through injury.
A regular for the Netherlands national team, Simons has attracted interest from several top clubs, with Arsenal among the most closely linked.
Mikel Arteta’s side are exploring options to strengthen their attacking midfield depth, and Simons’ versatility — able to operate in all three roles behind the striker — makes him a strong candidate.
Arsenal have also held talks over Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, but his £68 million release clause and the complexities of negotiating with Palace could push the club to consider alternatives.
Internally, Simons is regarded as the more strategic long-term investment, given his younger age, strong two-footed ability, and more consistent output. His 20% shot-to-goal conversion rate last season comfortably eclipsed Eze’s, underlining his clinical edge in the final third.
The Gunners have already completed deals for Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi and Noni Madueke this summer. Centre-back Cristhian Mosquera is also expected to join from Valencia.
However, speaking after recent arrivals, Arteta hinted that the club are not finished in the market just yet, stating, “We are still working on a few things — we’ll see how the next few weeks go.”
With outgoings expected — including the likely sale of Reiss Nelson — Arsenal are expected to push for at least one more attacking addition. Whether that will be Simons remains to be seen, but Inter’s growing interest has added urgency to the situation.
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