PSG Shuts the Door on Xavi Simons Loan to Barça

Xavi Simons, a prospect eyed for Barça’s new sporting project, finds his potential return to Camp Nou thwarted as PSG firmly denies any loan deal for the midfielder this summer.

Simons’ desire to join Barça was met with enthusiasm by both the player and the club, with initial optimism surrounding the operation. However, PSG’s stance, backed by a contract running until 2027, presents a formidable obstacle to any loan arrangement, particularly with the French club intent on selling him.

The emergence of the Simons option stemmed from the player’s eagerness to reunite with Barcelona, where he boasts many friends within the squad. The club, especially under Xavi’s leadership, seeks to bolster its midfield, considering Gavi’s prolonged recovery and the crucial early months of the upcoming season.

Despite initial contacts and Simons’ apparent interest, PSG remains unyielding. The Parisian club has no intention of integrating him as a regular starter, and Simons is unwilling to return to Paris as a mere squad player. While both parties seem inclined to part ways again, their methods differ. Simons favored a renewed loan with Barça as the primary candidate, but PSG aims to raise funds and views the upcoming summer market as opportune following Simons’ significant progress in European football.

Simons, aged 21, holds a high market valuation, hovering around €80 million, although PSG finds reaching this figure challenging. Negotiations, around €60 million plus incentives, are underway, contingent on the player’s approval. Leipzig appears to lead negotiations, benefitting from strong institutional ties with PSG.

Arsenal and Bayern have also inquired about the player, but PSG is eager to finalize deals swiftly. With Mbappé’s departure signaling a squad overhaul, PSG seeks to bolster its resources. Leipzig aims to entice Simons, offering a pivotal role and guaranteed starting position, coupled with continued Champions League participation.

Despite ongoing efforts at Barça, the operation appears increasingly complex. Only Simons’ complete defiance could alter the situation, though such a scenario remains improbable. Barça lacks the financial means for a major investment in Simons, making a loan deal the only viable option.

Meanwhile, Xavi’s pursuit of Bernardo Silva presents another challenge, requiring substantial funds and careful salary management, contingent on significant sales in the transfer market. A pivot and a left-winger remain top priorities, with Bernardo Silva emerging as a coveted target for the midfield.