Manchester City eye Simons as replacement for De Bruyne

Manchester City is reportedly interested in signing Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Xavi Simons, who is currently on loan at RB Leipzig.

According to ESPN, referencing Bild journalist Christian Falk, the Citizens are considering the acquisition of the 21-year-old Dutch midfielder next summer. The English club's management views Simons as a potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne.

However, Bayern Munich and Liverpool are also keen on signing Simons. Although Leipzig is eager to retain the Dutch player, the club may not be able to afford a permanent transfer. Simons himself is reportedly inclined to continue his career in the English Premier League.

Last summer, PSG reacquired Xavi Simons from PSV, after which the midfielder was loaned to RB Leipzig. In the current season, the 21-year-old has scored one goal and provided one assist in four matches for the German club. Simons' contract with the Parisian club runs until the summer of 2027. Transfermarkt values the player at €80 million.

Kevin De Bruyne has been with Manchester City since 2015. In the current campaign, the 33-year-old Belgian has made five appearances, scoring one goal and registering one assist. His contract with the Citizens expires next summer.