Chelsea open to Nkunku sale as Xavi Simons becomes priority target

Summer clear-out gathers pace at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea have entered the transfer window focusing on high-value exits as part of a broader squad overhaul. While continuing to invest in young talent, the club is looking to offload players who haven’t met expectations. According to Sports Illustrated, the most prominent name under review is Christopher Nkunku, whose future at the club is now uncertain:

“Chelsea are reportedly ready to take a loss on wantaway forward Christopher Nkunku after holding out for a competitive fee for much of the summer.”

Injury-hit season limits Nkunku’s impact

Nkunku joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2023 for £52 million. However, a serious pre-season injury delayed his integration, and although he featured in 48 matches across all competitions in 2024–25, registering 15 goals and 5 assists, he failed to lock down a permanent role. Nicolas Jackson’s consistent form further complicated Nkunku’s pathway to regular minutes.

Bayern and United interest cooled by Chelsea’s price tag

According to Sports Illustrated, Bayern Munich and Manchester United explored a potential move for Nkunku in January but withdrew when presented with Chelsea’s £65 million valuation:

“Bayern were keen in January before walking away when faced with Chelsea’s £65 million price tag.”

The situation has since evolved. Chelsea are now open to lower offers, which could revive interest from both clubs. Nkunku’s 36 goals and 21 assists during his final two seasons at Leipzig remain an appealing résumé, particularly for Bayern:

“Bayern are also interested in a player who racked up 36 goals and 21 assists across his last two years in the Bundesliga with Leipzig.” (SI)

Simons deal dependent on outgoing transfers

Funds raised from Nkunku’s sale could go toward signing Xavi Simons, who joined RB Leipzig permanently from PSG in the summer of 2024 for €50 million. Simons is a key target for Chelsea thanks to his versatility and technical intelligence in advanced areas. However, as Sports Illustrated reports, outgoings are necessary to fund the deal:

“Xavi Simons has emerged as the leading candidate but sales are required to free up the funds needed to pursue a deal.”

If Chelsea succeed in signing Xavi Simons, he is expected to start on the left wing in Enzo Maresca’s attacking quartet, with Pedro Neto on the right, Cole Palmer playing as the central playmaker, and João Pedro leading the line. Simons blends elite football intelligence with consistent end product. He contributes not only through assists but also by scoring goals himself. His ability to read the game with clarity allows him to drift inside, link up with teammates, and exploit tight spaces with well-timed runs. With his technical sharpness, spatial awareness, and calm decision-making in the final third, he could bring a new layer to Chelsea’s attacking play. In Maresca’s system, which depends on structured positioning and quick vertical transitions, Simons offers both fluid movement and decisive action. His inclusion could help Chelsea break down deep-lying defences and create a more balanced, versatile attacking shape.

João Félix also set for exit evaluation

Another attacking player likely to depart is João Félix. Chelsea are open to offers and evaluating his options ahead of the new season.

According to Record, Benfica are ramping up efforts to bring Félix back to Lisbon and have begun internal discussions over a possible transfer.

talkSPORT reports that several clubs from the Saudi Pro League are also monitoring his situation, although no formal bids have been submitted so far.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Félix will return to Chelsea following his loan at Atlético Madrid. The club plans to make a final decision on his future during the summer window. A permanent departure is expected if a suitable offer arrives.

Chelsea double down on long-term squad model

The departures of Félix and Nkunku would further reflect Chelsea’s shift toward a more stable, development-focused roster. This summer’s arrivals of João Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Estêvão from Palmeiras all point in that direction. The club is prioritising players who offer long-term value and tactical adaptability over short-term star appeal.

No change in direction, just a clearer roadmap

These moves reinforce rather than alter Chelsea’s transfer philosophy. After assembling the Premier League’s youngest squad over the past two seasons, the club remains committed to a youth-led model. Simons, with his potential and positional fluidity, fits seamlessly into that vision. Chelsea are not changing course. They are now executing their plans with greater clarity and intent.