9 hours ago 4

Bayern Munich move for Xavi Simons as midfielder pushes for RB Leipzig exit

Bayern Munich have made an official enquiry about RB Leipzig attacker Xavi Simons, as the club look to reinforce their depleted forward line ahead of the new season.

Despite Leipzig activating their option to buy him in January, Simons now wants a fresh challenge and views this summer as the right time to take the next step in his career.

Bayern, who have been frustrated in their pursuit of key targets, see Simons as an ideal solution following the collapse of moves for Florian Wirtz and Nico Williams.

Both players opted against joining the Bundesliga giants, leaving Bayern short on attacking options going into Vincent Kompany’s second season in charge.

Jamal Musiala is sidelined with a long-term injury, while Leroy Sane has joined Galatasaray on a free transfer and Mathys Tel was sold to Tottenham Hotspur.

Serge Gnabry is also entering the final year of his contract, further reducing Bayern’s depth in the final third.

Simons, who can operate out wide or as an attacking midfielder, would offer tactical flexibility and proven quality.

In two seasons at Leipzig — first on loan, then as a permanent player — the Dutch international has registered 21 goals and 23 assists in 76 appearances.

He played a crucial role in Leipzig’s 3-0 German Super Cup victory over Bayern in 2023 and remains one of the Bundesliga’s most dynamic young attackers.

Last season, injuries limited Simons to 33 appearances in all competitions, yet he still produced 19 direct goal contributions.

Leipzig failed to qualify for European football after finishing seventh in the league, a factor believed to have influenced Simons’ decision to seek a move.

No formal negotiations have begun, but Bayern are expected to accelerate talks in the coming days, with the player reportedly keen on the switch.

The club’s pursuit is not directly linked to Musiala’s absence, but there is a growing urgency to strengthen the squad before pre-season preparations begin.

Simons’ arrival would address multiple needs at once — adding creativity, pace and goal threat to an attack that has lost several key figures in recent months.

A move now depends on Leipzig’s willingness to part ways and Bayern’s readiness to meet or exceed the €50 million valuation.