Overview

• Xavi Simons has removed RB Leipzig references from his social media bio and begun following several Chelsea players, fuelling transfer anticipation.
• Leipzig has rejected proposals involving players as makeweights, insisting on a straight £60 million fee for the Netherlands international.
• Chelsea must clear space by offloading Christopher Nkunku, Carney Chukwuemeka and Armando Broja before submitting their formal offer.
• The 22-year-old midfielder’s 11 goals and eight assists for Leipzig last season underpin his £60 million valuation.
• Agent Ali Barat, who holds strong links with Chelsea, is driving the discussions between the clubs.