Arsenal could pull ahead of Manchester United in the race to sign one Euro 2024 star as Mikel Arteta plots loan swoop.
Arsenal and Manchester United could be about to go head-to-head for the signature of Xavi Simons.
The attacking-midfielder is currently in Germany, representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024.
Ronald Koeman selected the 21-year-old in his starting XI for his side’s clash with Poland on Sunday. However, the Dutchman struggled to produce his best for his country on that occasion.
Arsenal icon Martin Keown was critical of Simons for his performance in that match, but in any case, Mikel Arteta still seems to be an admirer of the PSG ace.
The Spanish coach is not the only one to value the £52 million playmaker’s talents either, as Simons has been described as a ‘world-class’ player by Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The Gunners could now be well-placed to secure Simons’ services for next season, too.
Arsenal eye loan move for Man United target Xavi Simons
According to Caught Offside, Arsenal and Manchester United both want to sign the player, but as PSG are reluctant to let him leave on a permanent basis the Gunners could have the “edge” over the Red Devils.
Arteta is willing to take Simons on loan, whereas Manchester United are still pursuing a permanent deal.
It is easy to see why the North London club are keen on Simons. He was in sensational form last season, whilst on loan with RB Leipzig. He racked up 10 goals and 15 assists in 43 appearances for the German outfit, across all competitions.
Is Euro 2024 ace Simons the player Arsenal need?
Simons would be an exciting addition to Arteta’s ranks, but since missing out on the signing of Benjamin Sesko adding a central midfielder is now the top priority for Arsenal this summer.
The Gunners are also still in the market for a striker, a goalkeeper, and a left-back. With these other areas of concern to address, it may be tricky to seal a deal for Simons too, even on loan.
However, if they can get an agreement over the line with PSG, then Arsenal would be securing versatile talent. Simons would be able to fill in on either flank, offering cover for the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, and can also play centrally.
When deployed through the middle, he would represent an option to take up the left-eight midfield berth, allowing Declan Rice to focus on his defensive duties.