Chelsea’s attempts to secure the signatures of Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho are facing unexpected obstacles, creating uncertainty around two of the club’s biggest potential moves of the summer transfer window.
Despite an already busy period of recruitment, the Blues are encountering challenges that could delay or even stall these ambitious pursuits.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are making strong efforts to bring in RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons and Manchester United’s highly rated winger Alejandro Garnacho. Both players are seen as exciting additions who could inject flair, energy, and creativity into Enzo Maresca’s squad.
However, Chelsea’s ability to finalize these deals is currently tied to the futures of two existing forwards — Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson.
Nkunku, who arrived from Leipzig just last summer, endured a frustrating, injury-affected debut season at Stamford Bridge. Now, he is the subject of interest from Bayern Munich, who are holding talks with Chelsea about a potential transfer.
While discussions are ongoing, no agreement has been reached. Meanwhile, Jackson has also emerged as a possible departure, with Newcastle United linked to the Senegalese striker. Still, no formal offers have been tabled for him, leaving Chelsea in limbo as they try to balance the books and make space in the squad to comply with financial regulations.
This situation has come at a delicate time for the club. The new Premier League season kicks off this weekend, with Chelsea set to face Crystal Palace before taking on West Ham and Fulham in back-to-back London derbies.
Ideally, Maresca would have wanted his squad complete and settled before the campaign begins, but the complexity of these negotiations means that deals for Simons and Garnacho could stretch into the final days — or even the final hours — of the transfer window.
Chelsea have already been among the busiest sides in the market. Their summer business so far has included the signings of young striker Liam Delap from Manchester City, talented winger Jamie Gittens, highly rated defender Jorrel Hato, and Brighton forward Joao Pedro.
Even with these arrivals, the recruitment team believes that further reinforcements in attacking positions are essential, with Simons and Garnacho seen as key targets.
Simons, just 21, had an impressive season at Leipzig, providing both goals and assists while displaying versatility across midfield and wide roles. His pace, vision, and creativity have made him a sought-after talent across Europe.
Garnacho, on the other hand, has already made his mark at Manchester United, becoming a fan favourite thanks to his fearless dribbling, direct style, and ability to produce moments of brilliance in high-pressure games.
For Chelsea, landing both players would be a massive statement of intent. Yet, the so-called “domino effect” in the transfer market must first unfold. Unless Nkunku or Jackson depart, Chelsea may struggle to move decisively for Simons and Garnacho.
For now, Blues supporters will be anxiously following developments, hoping their club can pull off two of the most exciting transfers of the summer — even if the clock is ticking uncomfortably close to deadline day.
