RB Leipzig eye Leicester star as Simons replacement

 RB Leipzig eye Leicester star as Simons replacement

RB Leipzig are preparing for life after Xavi Simons as Chelsea move closer to signing the Dutch midfielder. Simons, who joined Leipzig on loan from PSG last season, impressed with his creativity and work rate. Chelsea have reportedly advanced in talks with the player, and personal terms are said to be nearly agreed. The player is reportedly eager to join Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge and take part in Chelsea's upcoming projects.

RB Leipzig are open to selling Simons, but they’ve placed a hefty €69 million (£60m/$80m) price tag on him. The Bundesliga club had a disappointing campaign in 2024-25, missing out on Champions League qualification and looking to offload key talents like Simons and possibly Benjamin Sesko. The funds from Simons’ sale would likely be reinvested into squad rebuilding.

With Simons’ departure looking imminent, Leipzig have identified a potential replacement in Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannous. The 21-year-old Moroccan international joined Leicester last year from Genk and quickly became a key figure, making 37 appearances with three goals and six assists. Leipzig see him as a promising option to bring youthful creativity back into their midfield.

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Bilal El Khannous is now a hot target in the transfer market as both RB Leipzig and Crystal Palace show strong interest. Leipzig want him to replace Xavi Simons, who is likely Chelsea-bound, while Palace are planning for a future without star midfielder Eberechi Eze. Eze has drawn interest from clubs like Arsenal, and Palace may need a creative replacement to maintain their midfield quality.

El Khannous had a strong debut season in England after joining Leicester City for €24 million (£21m/$28m) from Genk. The 21-year-old playmaker, who was also named Belgian Pro League Young Player of the Year in 2024, impressed with his composure, vision, and ability to control the pace of games. His performances have caught the attention of top European clubs looking for young talent with high upside.

Palace, fresh off their FA Cup win, are reshaping their squad to ensure consistency in the league and potential European campaigns. They are monitoring El Khannous closely and are expected to challenge Leipzig if Leicester agree to sell.

Leicester, meanwhile, might find it difficult to hold on to the player, especially with no European football on offer and multiple top-flight teams showing interest. Whether El Khannous heads to Germany or stays in the Premier League could depend on the speed and structure of the offers that come in the next few weeks.