RB Leipzig have revealed that Xavi Simons is holding discussions over a summer transfer, with the Dutch star now in London for talks with Tottenham.
The 21-year-old midfielder had been strongly linked with Chelsea, where personal terms were thought to have already been agreed.
However, Spurs have entered the race after missing out on Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and have now reportedly submitted their first official bid for the forward.
Chelsea remain focused on securing Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United and are also pursuing Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline.
That shift in priorities could allow Tottenham to push ahead in negotiations for Simons.
Reports from German outlet BILD on Thursday morning suggested Simons skipped Leipzig training because he had travelled to the capital.
The Bundesliga club have since confirmed his absence, issuing a statement that said: “[Simons has been] released until further notice for future discussions.”
The Netherlands international has made it clear he is looking to leave Leipzig this summer, with a move to the Premier League understood to be his preferred option.
According to BILD, Tottenham are now considered the front-runners, with Simons and his representatives expected to meet the north London club on Thursday to discuss personal terms.
