Arsenal transfer target Xavi Simons could be set for a return to Paris Saint-Germain after a huge €6 million (£5.1m) decision was made. The Gunners emerged as a concrete option for the Netherlands international earlier this year following reports Arsenal were offered the chance to sign him amid his change in representation which hinted towards a Premier League move.
In a report from May, by the Mirror, it was revealed that Arsenal would have the opportunity to sign Simons from PSV Eindhoven in the summer trading period. A challenging spell in France saw the 20-year-old sign for the Dutch club on a free transfer last summer, but his 2022/23 season was the total opposite.
From 48 appearances in several competitions, Simons grabbed 22 goals and a further 12 assists with the majority of his returns coming in an attacking midfield role. Prior to the summer window opening, Simons had already made a significant decision after he chose to replace his previous agent Rafaela Pimente with Darren Dein who has clear connections to Arsenal.
Multiple reports in the Netherlands also indicated that Arsenal was the most likely option for Simons, however PSG always held the advantage. A €6m (£5.1m) buyback clause was placed into his contract when he completed the move PSV with the Parisians able to activate it if they wanted him to return.
PSG were considering their options for a number of weeks but the confirmation of Luis Enrique as their next manager has also seen a final decision made on Simons. According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, PSG have sent formal communication to PSV they have triggered the clause, however the decisions rests with Simons.
Back in May, the PSV starlet was asked about his club future but remained coy over his thoughts regarding a possible transfer. "I don't know yet," he said. "I'm now with the Dutch national team, I'm going to work here for two weeks and then we'll see what happens. Soon we will decide together with family what is best for me."
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It is currently unclear whether Simons will choose to try and write a different end to his story in France by moving back to PSG or stick with his current club after enjoying a fruitful season. Nonetheless, Arsenal will likely be keeping a close eye on the possible transfer as Simons saying no to PSG could open up the door for a move to north London.
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