MY ACCOUNT
Xavi Simons is lighting up the Eredivisie and Europe’s elite clubs are paying attention.
The forward is enjoying a stellar season with PSV Eindhoven as they bid to chase down league leaders Feyenoord.
His performances merited a spot in the Netherlands’ squad at the World Cup in Qatar, where he made his international debut as a substitute against the USA.
Tonight’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Gibraltar is another opportunity for Simons to show Ronald Koeman what he can bring to the Oranje as he looks to cement his place in the national team.
French fancy
Simons joined PSV on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last summer in search of more playing time — a move which paid off handsomely and has Les Parisiens exploring his return.
It has been reported that PSG have the option to bring back the 19-year-old for as little as £10million.
However, the dynamic talent is said to be happy in Eindhoven, while moving to the French capital would not necessarily guarantee a step forward in his career path.
And PSV director of Football Marcel Brands was bullish when discussing the situation earlier this month.
He said: “I don’t think he [Simons] 100% returns to PSG. I am confident that he will just play here next year.
“We will work with him and see if we can get that PSG clause out. And it’s not only PSG, I think he also dreams of [the] Premier League.”
Performing for PSV
It is clear to see why Simons has plenty of suitors — the teenager has registered 13 goals and six assists in just 26 league appearances this term.
PSV’s No7 has completed 57 take-ons in the Eredivisie, 81 carries into the final third and 37 into the penalty area, reflecting his direct dribbling when in possession.
Despite his young age, he also understands the importance of working hard off the ball.
Simons is a relentless defender, who is eager to press his opponents into mistakes — recording an impressive 38 tackles, 24 blocks and seven interceptions in the Dutch top flight to date.
Premier League interest
Simons’ performances are starting to attract significant interest from abroad, most notably the Premier League.
Newcastle, Arsenal and Manchester United are all reported to be among the teams assessing a move for the Amsterdam native.
United’s potential interest should not come as a surprise. After all, Erik ten Hag has already signed some of the Eredivisie’s best players in Lisandro Martinez, Antony and Tyrell Malacia.
Simons could be next on the club’s shopping list as the Red Devils aim to bolster their attacking options but they will have to contend with PSG to secure his services.
Ultimately, any move is in the hands of the player — as Simons himself has stated.
He said: “True, PSG have an option to bring me back but the decision is up to me. I’m the one who will decide.
“I like Paris, it’s a special city. But I signed a five-year deal with PSV Eindhoven, I’m so happy.”
Gunning for Gibraltar
The Netherlands faced Gibraltar twice in their World Cup qualifying campaign for Qatar 2022, winning 7-0 and 6-0 respectively.
So tonight’s encounter presents the perfect opportunity for Koeman’s outfit to bounce back from Friday’s heavy 4-0 defeat to France.
Simons was one of the Oranje’s brighter performers in that game after the illness-enforced absence of Cody Gakpo opened up a spot in the starting XI.
Should he perform like former team-mate Gakpo did during the World Cup, he may well follow in the Liverpool attacker’s footsteps and earn a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs.
Simons is now starting to realise his full potential and will be looking to prove himself on the international stage this evening.
