Xavi Simons transfer news has taken centre stage after the Dutch international explained how new Tottenham manager Thomas Frank convinced him to reject Chelsea and join Spurs in a €65m deal. The 22-year-old, speaking at the Netherlands’ training camp, admitted Frank’s detailed presentation was “fantastic” and proved decisive in sealing one of the summer’s most eye-catching transfers.
According to Eindhovens Dagblad, Simons was expected to remain at RB Leipzig after they paid Paris Saint-Germain €50m to make his loan permanent earlier this year. But just months later, he made it clear he wanted to move on, sparking interest from Chelsea before Tottenham hijacked the deal late in August.
Simons, the most expensive of Spurs’ eight summer signings, admitted that Frank’s tactical honesty and vision for his development made him choose north London. With Tottenham aiming to break back into the Champions League, could Simons be the creative spark Frank’s system thrives on?
Why Tottenham Needed Xavi Simons
Tottenham’s midfield lacked creativity and drive last season, particularly in games where opponents sat deep. Frank, known for his tactical discipline and development of talent at Brentford, identified Simons as the versatile attacking midfielder who could elevate Spurs’ transitions and pressing game.
At just 22, Simons brings Champions League experience with PSG and Bundesliga pedigree with Leipzig. His ability to operate centrally or wide gives Frank the flexibility to rotate with James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.
How Thomas Frank Convinced Him
Simons pulled no punches when explaining why Spurs won the race:
“The manager told me a lot. Positive things, but also things I need to improve. It’s fantastic how he sees football, how he wants to make players better. Spurs is the right place for me to develop.” — Xavi Simons, via Eindhovens Dagblad
The Dutchman added that Frank’s honesty stood out compared to previous coaches: “I always think the coaches are the most important people to base a decision on. As a player, you see a coach more than your family.”
Xavi Simons Stats Snapshot
| Stat (2024/25) | Xavi Simons |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 41 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 14 |
| Pass Accuracy | 87% |
source: sofascore match data – 2 September 2025
The numbers underline why Tottenham paid big: Simons consistently delivers end product, with double figures for goals and assists in back-to-back seasons across Europe’s top leagues.
Analyst Verdict — John William
For Tottenham, this move represents a clear statement of intent. Thomas Frank is blending his structured tactical identity with players capable of breaking lines and creating chaos in the final third. Simons is exactly that — a press-resistant midfielder who thrives under responsibility.
For RB Leipzig, losing him so soon after a permanent signing raises questions about player power. But Spurs’ gain could be transformative, especially if Simons adapts quickly to the Premier League’s pace.
Key Insights
- Xavi Simons transfer news: €65m Spurs move confirmed in late August.
- Chelsea were close, but Tottenham hijacked the deal.
- Thomas Frank’s presentation was key to persuading him.
- Most expensive of Spurs’ eight new summer signings.
- Dutch midfielder brings goals, assists and versatility at just 22.
What’s Next for Spurs and Simons?
Simons is set to debut after the international break, with Spurs fans eager to see how he links up with Maddison and Son Heung-min. Frank views him as a core piece of his new system, capable of unlocking deep defences and leading Spurs’ press from midfield.
Tottenham’s immediate challenge is consistency. With eight new arrivals, including Simons as the jewel, Frank faces the task of blending his squad quickly. If the Dutchman adapts as expected, Spurs’ Champions League push will gain serious momentum.
Can Thomas Frank turn Simons into Tottenham’s midfield talisman — or will the pressure of a €65m fee weigh heavy?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *