Views: 2
- Ten Hag is known to have an affinity for Dutch players
- Approached Simons to sign at Old Trafford
- Midfielder rebuffed the approaches in favour of Leipzig
WHAT HAPPENED?
United’s summer transfer window saw a flurry of activity as manager Erik ten Hag aimed to strengthen his squad across various key positions. The Red Devils brought in five new faces in their quest for domestic and European glory including Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Manuel Ugarte.
GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
However, not all targets were secured before the transfer window closed and it has now been revealed by Fabrizio Romano that Simons slipped through their fingers. United had inquired about Simons’ availability early in the summer before he linked up with the Netherlands national team for the Euro 2024 tournament. But the midfielder was not interested in a move to England and instead preferred a return to Leipzig, where he had enjoyed a productive loan spell in 2023-24.
DID YOU KNOW?
Simons’ journey through European football began at Barcelona, where he was hailed as one of the club’s brightest prospects. However, in 2022, he opted to leave the Catalan giants and joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to seek more playing opportunities at the senior level. While PSG initially offered him a chance to make his mark, he was soon loaned out to PSV Eindhoven for the 2022-23 season.
Despite his successful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven, Simons found it difficult to establish himself at PSG upon his return in the summer of 2023. PSG, recognising his need for regular game time to continue his development, decided to loan him out once again, and Leipzig emerged as the option.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?
Although Xavi Simons chose to return to Germany for the current season, his future remains the subject of much speculation. Romano has hinted that the Dutch midfielder could be open to a new challenge as early as the summer of 2025 and this could potentially reignite United’s interest, especially if Simons continues to impress in the Bundesliga. Given Ten Hag’s affinity towards Dutch players, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Red Devils make another approach when the opportunity arises.
GOAL