£60m star unsure on Newcastle move? – New report claims player has doubts after interest

Newcastle United entered the summer transfer window with confidence, fuelled by their Carabao Cup triumph and qualification for the Champions League.

The optimism was palpable; expectations soared as fans anticipated the kind of marquee signings that would signal a real intent to compete with Europe’s elite.

Yet as the weeks have rolled on, the excitement has slowly given way to frustration, as one target after another has slipped through the club’s fingers.

The early days of the window were marked by repeated setbacks. Newcastle found themselves embroiled in prolonged negotiations over several key targets, only to miss out on each one.

Efforts to sign the likes of Liam Delap, Bryan Mbeumo, Joao Pedro, and Dean Huijsen faltered due to a combination of wage demands, transfer fees, doubts about playing time, and, in some cases, the ever-persistent lure of London.

These repeated near misses have only intensified scrutiny on the club’s transfer approach, and now a new name has been added to the list of uncertainty—Xavi Simons.

According to reports out of Germany, particularly from Sport Bild, the RB Leipzig and Netherlands international has emerged as a player Newcastle admire.

Simons, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents, appears to be on the lookout for a new challenge following Leipzig’s failure to secure European qualification.

At just 22 years old, the Dutchman is reportedly available for under £60 million, an attractive valuation considering his pedigree and potential. Clubs like Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are also reportedly interested, putting Newcastle in competition with some of the Premier League’s biggest names.

Despite his desire to play in the Champions League, Simons is said to be hesitant about a move to St. James’ Park.

While the German outlet stops short of reporting an outright refusal, the suggestion that it’s “questionable whether Xavi is up for it” casts doubt on Newcastle’s ability to secure his signature. As of now, there has been no official bid from the Magpies, only reported interest.

Simons had been seen as a potential creative force behind Alexander Isak—someone who could provide flair and vision in attacking midfield, especially after Joao Pedro’s decision to join Chelsea.

However, Simons is not a natural striker, and his experience playing off the left complicates things further, considering Newcastle already boast Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes in that position. While his quality is undeniable, his best role may not align with the team’s most pressing needs.

For supporters, news of Simons’ hesitation is yet another blow in a summer that has so far lacked the transfer breakthroughs many hoped would build on the momentum of last season.

Fans are beginning to question not only the club’s ability to close deals but also the clarity of their overall strategy. The idea of focusing on emerging foreign talent rather than Premier League-proven players is, in theory, a smart approach that can uncover hidden gems at more reasonable prices. But showing interest alone isn’t enough—Newcastle must convince these players to buy into the vision.

This is where the model set by Bruno Guimarães and Sven Botman becomes relevant. Both turned down more established clubs to join Newcastle, drawn by a belief in the club’s ambition and trajectory.

Their decisions have paid off, with their individual stocks rising alongside Newcastle’s competitive profile. That type of commitment is non-negotiable. Newcastle need players who are not only talented but hungry to be part of the journey—those who see Tyneside as the destination, not the compromise.

If Simons doesn’t share that enthusiasm, Newcastle would be wise to move on. Earlier in the summer, reports suggested the club pulled back from pursuing Dean Huijsen due to the player’s hesitation in committing.

That stance reflects a growing maturity in Newcastle’s recruitment policy—one that prioritizes character and conviction alongside ability. It’s a philosophy worth sticking to.

The disappointment of missing out on Xavi Simons, if indeed it comes to pass, should be taken as a sign of where the club is in its evolution. Newcastle can no longer afford to chase names simply for the sake of appearances.

Every new signing must be fully invested in the vision, just as the supporters are. That’s how foundations are built—not with fleeting talent, but with lasting belief.