Dutch Eredivisie club, PSV Eindhoven, announced on Sunday, July 16, that Xavi Simons has officially left the team to complete a transfer back to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The talented midfielder, who was a former Barcelona academy player, initially joined PSV on a five-year deal from PSG last year after his contract expired.
Upon returning to his homeland, Simons made a significant impact under the guidance of PSV coach Ruud van Nistelrooy. He showcased his skills and abilities, contributing an impressive tally of 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 games while wearing the PSV jersey. His outstanding performances played a crucial role in helping PSV secure the KNVB Beker (Dutch Cup) and Dutch Super Cup titles.
Within the Eredivisie, Simons excelled with 19 goals in 34 matches, finishing the season as the second-highest scorer behind Anastasios Douvikas of FC Utrecht, who netted 20 goals. Notably, PSG had included a buyback clause in the initial deal with PSV, set at €6 million (£5.2 million), and they have now exercised that option.
PSV officially confirmed Simons' departure in a statement, revealing that he has left the team's training camp in Austria to finalize his transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. Simons is expected to undergo a medical examination and sign his contract with PSG today. However, it remains uncertain if he will immediately return to Luis Enrique's squad, as there are indications that he might be loaned out for the 2023-24 season.
Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano suggests that PSG may consider loaning Simons if both Kylian Mbappe and Neymar remain at the club this summer. However, if either or both of them depart PSG, Simons is likely to stay in Paris. PSG is actively seeking to sell Mbappe due to his refusal to extend his contract beyond the upcoming season. Nevertheless, Mbappe has expressed his intention to remain at the club and will make a decision on his future in 2024.
In the meantime, Chelsea and clubs in Saudi Arabia are reportedly monitoring Neymar's situation, although PSG is not actively attempting to offload the Brazilian forward at present.
Popular journalist, Fabrizio Romano claims that PSG will let Simons leave temporarily if Kylian Mbappe and Neymar both stay at the club this summer, but if one or both leave, he will remain in Paris.
PSG are desperate to sell Mbappe amid his refusal to extend his contract beyond the end of next season, but the Frenchman has affirmed that he plans to stay put and will make a decision on his future in 2024.
Meanwhile, Chelsea and clubs in Saudi Arabia are thought to be keeping tabs on Neymar’s situation, but PSG are not believed to be actively trying to offload the Brazil international at this moment in time.
