Manchester United enter race to sign star who scored against England at Euro 2024: Reports
Manchester United have reportedly entered the race to sign Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) attacking midfielder Xavi Simons following his exploits at Euro 2024. The Dutchman enjoyed a solid Euro campaign and also scored for the Netherlands in their 1-2 semi-final defeat against England.
As claimed by Express Sport, the Red Devils have entered a three-way battle to sign Simon as the 21-year-old looks destined to leave PSG. They, however, are set to face competition from Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig for the versatile attacker's signature.
Simons enjoyed a productive season on loan at RB Leipzig last time out, scoring 10 goals and 15 assists in 43 appearances. The Dutchman was only signed by PSG for the second time last summer and immediately loaned him out to the Bundesliga side.
The young Dutchman was formerly on the books of Barcelona, PSG and PSV Eindhoven and is now believed to be keen on settling down at a club. PSG could reportedly be open to letting Simons go if their £70 million valuation is met.
Manchester United are understood to be working on a loan deal with an obligation to buy due to PSR restrictions. PSG manager Luis Enrique is yet to decide the future of the Dutchman but the player is desperate for regular playing time.
Simons could be a solid addition to Manchester United thanks to his enormous quality and versatility. He is capable of playing on either flank as well as a number ten which makes him a manager's dream.
Pundit compares Manchester United wonderkid to Manchester City star
Premier League icon Teddy Sheringham has hailed Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and likened him to Manchester City star Rodri. The former Tottenham Hotspur attacker has highlighted the similarities between Mainoo and Rodri. He said, as quoted by DAZN:
“Kobbie Mainoo is so smooth for such a young player. You can tell he understands what it takes to play in midfield and the role you need to perform to excel there – like Rodri does for Manchester City. He knows how to keep the ball, which is his main objective when he’s on the pitch and very tough to do, particularly in big games like last night.
“So many players get it wrong when playing in midfield trying to find a difficult pass or taking too many touches, but it’s all about keeping the ball for your team and keeping things ticking over. Mainoo does that beautifully – he’s been brilliant for England and hopefully he can continue that form into Sunday.”
Rodri is arguably the best defensive midfielder in the world right now and has played a key role in Manchester City's success since joining in 2019. The Spaniard has won 11 trophies during his time at the Etihad and has been pivotal behind Spain's run-up to Euro 2024 final.