Breaking: Chelsea make Xavi Simons transfer move as £56m reality laid bare

Chelsea have opened talks with Xavi Simons' representatives over a possible move to Stamford Bridge this summer, football.london understands.

As reported in recent days, the Blues have been considering their options with the 22-year-old RB Leipzig attacker and the west Londoners have now made their opening move. Talks are underway between Chelsea and Simons' representatives, including super agent Ali Barat, who was instrumental in Noni Madueke's recent move to Arsenal.

Reports coming out of Germany today suggest Simons could be available for €65million (£56million), with Leipzig open to selling the Netherlands international. Chelsea will do their best to get that price down and are still keen to move on some players in order to facilitate the move.

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football.london understands there are not expected to be any issues with personal terms as Simons is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. However, there are numerous other clubs with an interest in Simons, who are all keeping a close eye on his situation and developments over the coming days.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking to sell a number of players between now and the end of the summer transfer window. One of those who could be on their way out is Christopher Nkunku, who has made it clear to the club that he wants to depart this summer. The Blues will not stand in the Frenchman's way should a suitable offer arrive their way for the 27-year-old attacker.

There are set to be a few moves completed to Strasbourg in the near future as well. Chelsea are close to loaning out Mike Penders, Mamadou Sarr and Kendry Paez to their sister club, which would complete the maximum amount of players a side is allowed to send to another during one window.

Ishé Samuels-Smith, meanwhile, is expected to move to eastern France on a permanent basis, football.london understands, with talks ongoing between the player's entourage and the French club over personal terms. If the two parties can reach an agreement on said terms, then the two clubs will speak about a fee.

Samuels-Smith, who is currently at his family home in Manchester, will fly to France to finalise the deal once the following steps are completed. It is understood that the 19-year-old defender, who joined Chelsea in 2023 from Everton, is keen on moving to Strasbourg.