Xavi Simons, a former player from FC Barcelona’s La Masia academy, is set to return to the club on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, according to Mundo Deportivo. Simons joined La Masia in 2010 and was considered one of the most promising prospects. However, he left for PSG to complete his development in the French capital. Despite spending five years at PSG, he has only made seven senior Ligue 1 appearances during that time.
Throughout his career, Simons has spent more time out of the club than in, with stints at PSV in the Netherlands and a loan spell at RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. Despite Barca’s recent Champions League semifinal exit, they seem interested in integrating Simons into their squad due to his familiarity with the club’s playing style and his ability to arrive in the box as a midfielder, unlike other deep-lying playmakers.
Simons, who has a special clause in his contract allowing him to choose his next loan destination, is reportedly keen on re-joining Barcelona. Mundo Deportivo reports that both the player and his agent are seeking a meeting with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi to discuss the potential move. Simons’ style of play, which has seen him score nine goals in 40 appearances for Leipzig, could provide a different dynamic to Barcelona’s midfield.
Barcelona’s interest in Simons comes at a time when relations between the Catalan club and PSG are at a low point. It remains to be seen whether Al-Khelaifi will approve the loan deal, as PSG may be hesitant to strengthen a direct European rival. Despite this uncertainty, Simons’ potential return to Barcelona would provide the club with a promising midfield option and could offer the player a chance to showcase his talents at a top European club.
As a highly regarded talent, the decision to bring Simons back to Barcelona could be a strategic move for the club, who are looking to rebuild their squad and compete at the highest level. With his ability to contribute goals from midfield and his understanding of Barcelona’s playing style, Simons could offer a new dimension to the team’s midfield. The upcoming discussions between Simons, his agent, and PSG will be crucial in determining whether the loan move will materialize.
