Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of Netherlands international Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig in a major boost for new manager Thomas Frank.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who has signed a long-term contract subject to international clearance and a work permit, joins Spurs for an initial fee of £51.8 million ($69.9 million) with additional add-ons included, according to British media reports.
Simons’ arrival comes after Spurs missed out on Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest and saw rival target Eberechi Eze leave Crystal Palace for north London rivals Arsenal. With James Maddison sidelined for most of the season following a serious knee injury and Dejan Kulusevski also out with a knee problem, the deal represents a significant attacking reinforcement for Frank’s side.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Simons expressed his excitement:
“I’m really happy and can’t wait to get going. I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time. It’s a great club and when I met the head coach, I knew straight away this was the right place for me. I will bring flair to the team but also hard work and discipline. I want to do everything I can to win, for the team and also for the fans.”
Manager Thomas Frank praised his new signing, highlighting his creativity and versatility:
“Xavi has proven his ability to get goals and assists, both from the number 10 position and left-wing.
He also has a great eye for his team-mates in terms of unlocking defences, and I know he will come in and be part of a good team that is already working hard together.”
A product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, Simons joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 before hitting form on loan at PSV Eindhoven during the 2022/23 season, scoring 22 goals. He later moved to RB Leipzig, where he netted 22 goals in 78 appearances across two seasons.
Simons will wear the No. 7 shirt vacated by former Spurs captain Son Heung-min and is set to be unveiled to fans ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.
