Spurs now favourites to sign £70m “superstar,” he’d be Ange’s own version of Wirtz
The confetti had barely settled on Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League triumph when the hard truths of their Premier League campaign came back into focus.
Ange Postecoglou’s men lifted the club’s first major trophy since 2008 with a gutsy victory over Manchester United, yet their dismal 17th-place domestic finish reveals a squad in urgent need of reinforcement.
While European glory guarantees Champions League football next season, Daniel Levy now faces a pivotal summer – stick with the manager who delivered silverware or seek a new direction?
One thing is certain: Tottenham must capitalize on their restored elite status in the transfer market. According to Spanish reports, Spurs have emerged as frontrunners to sign RB Leipzig’s electrifying Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons, with the German club setting an €80 million (£68 million) price tag after failing to qualify for Europe.
Liverpool’s decision to pursue Florian Wirtz instead has opened the door for Tottenham to secure one of Europe’s most dynamic young talents.
Why Xavi Simons Represents the Perfect Postecoglou Player
Since leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, the 21-year-old Simons has blossomed into a complete modern attacker. Capable of operating centrally or out wide, his 44 goal contributions in 76 Leipzig appearances showcase rare productivity for his age.
Analyst Ben Mattinson describes him as a “superstar in the making,” while scout Jacek Kulig praises his “game-changing” ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch.
A comparison with Liverpool-bound Wirtz reveals why Simons could be the smarter investment:
| Metric (per game) | Xavi Simons | Florian Wirtz |
|---|---|---|
| Matches (starts) | 25 (25) | 31 (25) |
| Goals | 10 | 10 |
| Assists | 7 | 12 |
| Shots (on target) | 2.0 (0.9) | 2.3 (1.3) |
| Pass completion % | 83% | 82% |
| Big chances created | 12 | 17 |
| Dribbles completed | 1.3 | 2.6 |
| Ball recoveries | 5.1 | 3.6 |
| Tackles + interceptions | 1.6 | 1.3 |
| Duels won | 5.4 | 5.2 |
Data via Sofascore – Bundesliga 2024/25 season
While Wirtz edges the creative statistics, Simons demonstrates superior defensive work rate and ball retention – traits perfectly suited to Postecoglou’s high-pressing system.
His 5.1 ball recoveries per game would immediately improve Tottenham’s midfield steel, and his versatility allows tactical flexibility across multiple formations.
The Transformational Impact Simons Could Bring
At £68 million, Simons would become Tottenham’s record signing, but the investment makes strategic sense for several reasons:
- Champions League Pedigree: Having already shone in Europe with Leipzig, Simons wouldn’t require adaptation time to elite competition
- Age Profile: At 21, his peak years align with Tottenham’s projected growth curve under Postecoglou
- Commercial Appeal: His marketability in European and Asian markets would boost commercial revenue streams
- Squad Balance: Can rotate with Maddison in advanced roles or provide width when Son needs rest
Former Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes may claim Wirtz is “probably the best midfielder in the world,” but Simons’ all-action style arguably makes him better suited to the physical demands of English football.
His ability to both create and disrupt plays mirrors the qualities that made Mousa Dembélé so influential during Tottenham’s last successful era.
A Defining Summer for Tottenham’s Project
Securing Simons would send a powerful message about Tottenham’s ambitions post-trophy drought. While the Europa League victory provides temporary respite, consistent top-four challenges must follow to retain players like Romero and attract further elite talent.
The Dutchman’s potential arrival symbolizes more than just a quality addition – it represents Tottenham’s ability to outmaneuver rivals for premium assets despite their underwhelming league campaign.
With Champions League football secured and a young, hungry core taking shape, Postecoglou (or his potential successor) would have the tools to build something special.
As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Levy backs this vision with the required investment. One thing is clear: in Xavi Simons, Tottenham have identified a transformative talent who could help usher in their next great era.
The question now is whether they can finalize what would undoubtedly be the signing of the summer.