Tottenham face ‘another Luka Modrić situation’ with Xavi Simons transfer
Tottenham supporters will be hit with a sense of déjà vu should Xavi Simons sign for the Lilywhites.
Tottenham have been linked with a move for Simons this summer, which could spell trouble for James Maddison in North London.
Simons has been one of RB Leipzig’s most important players since joining the German club permanently from Paris Saint-Germain and is considered one of the best young midfield talents in football.
Spurs supporters have been sceptical about the Dutchman even joining Tottenham in the first place. However, if he does sign, there is also reason to be worried.
Simons could follow in Luka Modrić’s footsteps
Tottenham signed Luka Modrić from Dinamo Zagreb for a fee of around £15million in 2008.
The midfielder was coined a “fantastic prospect” by Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan, as the Magpies’ advances were fought off by Spurs at the time.
While Modric started slow at Tottenham, he eventually became one of the Premier League’s best midfielders before leaving for Real Madrid in 2012 after four seasons in North London.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
| Luka Modrić | 44 | 5 | 10 | 3.496′ |
| Xavi Simons | 33 | 11 | 8 | 2.763′ |
Simons is 22, the same age Modrić was when the Croatian signed for Tottenham.
Just as Modrić was, the former Barcelona academy star is seen as one of the best midfield talents of his generation, and there is reason to suggest that Simons will also need time to adapt to the pace of the Premier League.
However, just like Modrić, Simons could end up using Tottenham as a stepping stone to bigger and better things, and might not stick around as long as the Balon d’Or winner did.
Therefore, while signing Simons would be exciting, Tottenham could be bringing in a player who would already have one eye on a move elsewhere upon his arrival in North London, which might not be the best idea in the long run.
Tottenham may not have a choice but to sign Simons
The Lilywhites are in desperate need of some creativity in midfield, given the injuries Maddison suffered last season.
Tottenham are linked with Eberechi Eze, but with the Eagles now looking more likely to play in the UEFA Europa League next season after Woody Johnson agreed to buy John Textor’s shares at Selhurst Park, this could throw a spanner in the works.
As a result, Tottenham could opt to pursue Simons instead of Eze.
The RB Leipzig star has excellent close control and can play between the lines, which could help Tottenham break down low blocks if needed. Furthermore, he is as good in front of goal as he is at creating.
Therefore, even if Simons uses Tottenham as a stepping stone, Frank will get some good use out of him.
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