Tottenham news: Where will Xavi Simons fit into Thomas Frank’s side? Spurs complete deal for RB Leipzig forward
Tottenham Hotspur’s summer-long search for an attacking midfielder has finally come to an end.
The Lilywhites have signed RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons following failed moves for Morgan Gibbs-White and Arsenal new boy Eberechi Eze.
Thomas Frank’s side are understood to have paid up to €70million for the Dutchman’s signature.
Interest from elsewhere
The 22-year-old had been heavily linked with a move to London rivals Chelsea all summer.
However, negotiations had recently stalled due to the unresolved future of Christopher Nkunku, who is now set to join Serie A side AC Milan.
Time has run out for Enzo Maresca’s Blues, though, as Simons has chosen Tottenham Hotspur.
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Where will Xavi Simons play for Spurs?
In the Bundesliga, Simons primarily played on the left side of midfield, in a 4-2-2-2 formation, where he often cut in-field to create, similarly to Eze.
Like the Englishman, Simons can play both out wide and in a more traditional attacking midfield role, which is where he is expected to play under Frank.
The Dutch international’s versatility could be a key factor for Spurs this season.
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How clinical is Xavi Simons?
The Dutchman has put up incredible numbers in Germany, scoring 43 goals and creating 32 assists over the last three seasons.
Simons has an excellent ability to link play between the midfield and forwards, with his silky dribbling and alert vision.
In the Bundesliga, the forward created 24 big chances, with two key passes and almost three successful dribbles per game.
Simons’ strongest attribute, however, would be his shooting ability, especially from range.
Six of the Dutchman’s goals in the last three campaigns have come from outside of the box, showcasing his flexibility between playmaking and shooting.
With teams expected to sit in deep against Tottenham this season, Spurs’ new signing will be vital to Frank & Co.
Simons’ ability to score from range or play key passes to unlock defences will be key to beating low-block sides.
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How much will Tottenham Hotspur rely on Xavi Simons?
However, in games where more space is afforded, Simons’ explosive pace will be dangerous on the counter, which we know Spurs like to exploit.
Given the long-term injuries to both James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, Simons will have a huge workload this campaign.
In the last year, the Dutchman missed over two months of football due to injuries.
If Spurs are to compete on all four fronts, Tottenham may consider bringing in a backup to act as an understudy to Simons.
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