Kylian Mbappe’s PSG exit likely blocks dream Arsenal transfer for perfect Bukayo Saka competitor
When I look at the potential stars of the generation of talents across Europe there are few that stand out quite like Xavi Simons. What you want from a player who might one day grace the Emirates Stadium pitch, if a dream transfer were to materialise, is energy, versatility, confidence and excitement.
Of course, you need the tangible numbers in goals and assists too and Simons certainly has produced not only in the Eredivisie whilst with PSV but having since gone on loan to the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig too. The Dutch international has clocked up seven goals and 11 assists in the league with two more goals and assists across all competitions taking his total for 36 games played to 22 goal contributions.
For a 20-year-old playing in one of Europe’s elite leagues, this is very strong. The numbers however do not stop there with FBRef showcasing his talents against other attacking midfielders and wingers in the top five elite European leagues.
91st percentile for assists per 90, 96th for shot-creating actions per 90, 82nd for progressive passes per 90, 83rd for successful take-ons per 90 and 92nd for key passes for 90. Very strong both creatively and whilst in possession too, traits which are adored by Mikel Arteta.
The problem in a move between Arsenal and PSG – his parent club – materialising however is the Parisiens situation. With Kylian Mbappe on the move this summer with a switch to Real Madrid expected, the French champions will want to lock down their remaining talent.
Last summer they looked to bring in other young stars like Randal Kolo Muani, Manuel Ugarte, Bradley Barcola, Kang-in Lee, Lucas Beraldo and Goncalo Ramos. They also secured Ousmane Dembele and Marco Asensio in a massive recruitment drive knowing it would
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