No, not Benjamin Sesko – but his teammate, Xavi Simons. The 22-year-old Dutchman has long been admired by many, and this summer could finally present the opportunity for a top Premier League move.
Although Simons is still only 22, his age and experience—including at PSG, PSV, and now Leipzig—make him one of the most complete young attacking midfielders on the market. Arsenal needs more tactical flexibility and cutting-edge in their attacking midfield unit, and Simons offers exactly that. He can play as a No.8 or No. 10 on either wing and even as a false nine. In Mikel Arteta’s fluid, positional system, this level of versatility is a dream.
Despite a difficult year for Leipzig, Simons has continued to shine. According to WhoScored, his average rating across the Bundesliga season was 7.31 – comfortably higher than teammates – the closest being Will Orban (7.08) and Benjamin Šeško (6.95). He has consistently been their best player, both in terms of output and influence.
Much like Martin Ødegaard, Simons has carried the creative burden for his side. His underlying numbers are elite: 2.1 key passes per 90 minutes, 2.43 passes into the penalty area, and 64.17 touches per game – the kind of high-touch, high-responsibility profile Arteta thrives on. He drops deep, links play, and constantly looks to manipulate space. For Arsenal, he could start wide but drift centrally as the game develops, giving us a new dimension in the final third.
Interestingly, Simons’ move to Leipzig became permanent in January for an initial fee of £46 million, potentially rising to £67.5 million. However, with a contract expiring in 2027 and Leipzig missing out on Champions League revenue, it’s believed they may be open to a deal this summer. It’s also believed that due to the team not qualifying for the Champions League, most of the add ons are yet to be paid by Leipzig to PSG.
Some reports have suggested he could be available for around £60 million – a fee that would look excellent value when compared to some of the inflated prices being quoted for less versatile, older options.
Arsenal have already been heavily linked with a move for his teammate Benjamin Šeško, but Xavi may prove to be the better coup from Leipzig – offering more immediate flexibility and long-term value.
At just 22, Simons represents a strategic investment: ready to impact now, but still with years of growth ahead. With Arsenal needing greater squad depth and tactical flexibility to mount another title push, a move for Simons could be the kind of decisive, smart transfer that defines a season.
For more on potential Arsenal signings in 2025 and tactical targets, stay tuned to Fresh Arsenal.