“We almost signed before the Euros because we wanted him to be a backup for Bruno Fernandes also because we love the way he plays. But Bruno might not be happy with that deal. We might risk losing Bruno Fernandes because of him but everybody at the club wants the Dutch Euros Best player this year”- Erik ten Hag has already made his feelings clear on Manchester United signing Xavi Simons this summer as he explains why they have never signed him yet. But wait, there’s more to this bombshell move than meets the eye! 😳
Manchester United has shown keen interest in potentially loaning Dutch forward Xavi Simons, a move welcomed by manager Erik ten Hag, who has expressed admiration for the PSG player. This summer marks a significant period for the club under new minority ownership by INEOS, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe now overseeing football operations following a recent takeover. This change has brought fresh perspectives to United’s transfer strategies.
Despite securing the FA Cup against Manchester City, uncertainties loomed over Ten Hag’s future after United’s disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League, their worst in history. Following a strategic review, however, the club opted to extend Ten Hag’s contract until 2026, providing stability and enabling a focus on squad reinforcement.
Manchester United has already made substantial strides in the transfer market. Forward Joshua Zirkzee completed a medical after a £33.7 million agreement with Bologna, marking the club’s first signing. Furthermore, personal terms have been settled with Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, with negotiations around a £42 million fee for the defender.
Xavi Simons, who scored for the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 semi-final loss to England, could potentially bolster United’s squad. Reports suggest United is exploring a loan deal for Simons, with PSG open to including an option to buy next summer. This move would provide United with attacking depth while offering Simons an opportunity to showcase his skills in the Premier League.
Erik ten Hag has publicly praised Simons, particularly noting his standout performance against England. “I enjoyed Xavi Simons in that game,” ten Hag remarked. “His drive, passion, and tactical awareness are exceptional. His determination is almost uncharacteristically strong for a Dutch player, suggesting a continental influence in his upbringing.”
Simons’ development at Barcelona’s youth academy before joining PSG in 2019, coupled with his loan spell at RB Leipzig, underscores his versatility, technical prowess, and competitive spirit. His potential acquisition aligns with United’s strategy of recruiting young talents capable of immediate impact and long-term growth.
As the transfer window progresses, Manchester United’s proactive approach in strengthening the squad is evident. The signings of Zirkzee and potentially Simons reflect their ambition to assemble a competitive team ready to challenge for top honors in the upcoming season. Fans await official announcements eagerly, anticipating how these new additions will fit into Ten Hag’s vision for the team.
