Manchester United’s attempt to sign Xavi Simons from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) was thwarted by a clause in the player’s contract, according to reports. The 20-year-old attacker, who had an impressive season with Dutch club PSV, scoring 19 goals and providing eight assists, was sold to PSG in the summer of 2022. However, PSG included a buy-back clause in the deal, which they activated, bringing Simons back to the Parc des Princes for just £5 million.
Initially, it was believed that Simons could break into the first team under Luis Enrique. However, due to an abundance of attacking options, PSG decided to loan him out. RB Leipzig secured Simons on loan, and he has already made a significant impact, scoring three goals and providing four assists in just seven Bundesliga appearances.
According to French newspaper L’Equipe, PSG received two “big offers” for Simons, one from Leipzig for a permanent deal and another from Manchester United. United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, who had been closely monitoring Simons during his time at PSV, was keen to bring him to Old Trafford. However, talks between the clubs broke down due to an unusual clause in PSG’s agreement with PSV.
The clause stipulated that if PSG bought Simons back and then sold him before a certain date, PSV would receive the transfer fee. This clause covers both the previous summer transfer window and the upcoming January window. As a result, PSG rejected United’s offer and opted to loan out Simons for the 2023-24 season. They are hoping that another impressive campaign from Simons will attract more offers next summer when they will receive all the profits from any potential sale.
Despite United’s failed attempt, there is a possibility that they could make another offer for Simons in the future. However, German newspaper Sport Bild reports that Leipzig is already working on extending Simons’ loan stay. There is a preliminary agreement in place for Simons to remain at Leipzig if the club qualifies for the Champions League next year and if he plays a certain number of games, which seems highly likely.
The future looks bright for Simons, who has shown immense potential at a young age. His performances for PSV and RB Leipzig have caught the attention of top clubs, including Manchester United. It remains to be seen whether United will make another move for Simons or if Leipzig will secure his services on a more permanent basis.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s attempt to sign Xavi Simons from PSG was hindered by a clause in his contract. Despite United’s interest, PSG decided to loan out Simons for the current season, hoping to attract more offers next summer. Simons has already made a significant impact at RB Leipzig and is considered a promising talent for the future. It remains to be seen where his career will take him, but he is certainly a player to watch out for in the coming years.