Three teams chasing former La Masia star on verge of PSG exit

Xavi Simons was held in the highest of regard when he was coming through the ranks at Barcelona’s famed La Masia youth academy.

The Spanish-Dutch midfielder joined the Blaugrana in 2010 from CD Thader Rojales and showed all signs of heading towards a bright future with the first team in Catalonia.

However, in the summer of 2019, the attacking midfielder decided to trade clubs and moved to Paris Saint-Germain for a more lucrative contract and in hope of a faster breakthrough into the senior setup.

While he did get his first-team bow with PSG last year under Mauricio Pochettino, he has hardly been used regularly, making just four appearances to date. Given the plethora of attacking talent already available at Parc des Princes, it was always likely that the 18-year-old would struggle to nail down a spot in the side.

Now, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Simons is seeking to move on in search of first-team football. And as many as three clubs are in the hunt to sign the Netherlands Under-19 international in the ongoing transfer window itself, reports Fichajes.

The first name on the list, as per the report, is that of Barcelona. The Catalans have been linked with a reunion with the talented youngster. Reports in the past have indicated that the player himself is keen on returning to Catalonia and joining the youth revolution at Camp Nou.

Given his contract situation, securing his signing would be very much feasible, while he would add strength in depth in midfield and attacking regions.

Premier League champions Manchester City are also touted as an interested party in signing the PSG starlet. The Citizens’ boss, Pep Guardiola, is believed to rate the 18-year-old highly and is hoping to add Simons to the ranks with an eye on the future.

Finally, Newcastle United are also understood to be keen on signing the former La Masia prospect. The Magpies want to build a team with a good mix of youth and experience as they look to stave off relegation and build a strong project under their new owners, with Simons emerging as a target.