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

Newcastle United Face Frustrating Transfer Window Despite Champions League Boost

Following their memorable Carabao Cup triumph in March and a triumphant finish to the Premier League season that secured them a place in next year’s UEFA Champions League, Newcastle United seemed poised to build on their success. With Eddie Howe at the helm and momentum on their side, many fans believed that the summer of 2025 would mark the beginning of a bold new chapter at St. James’ Park. Optimism was high, the foundations were strong, and the future appeared to be bright.

However, as the weeks rolled on, that early excitement has gradually given way to frustration and uncertainty. June, in particular, has been a month marked by disappointments and transfer setbacks, with several high-profile targets slipping through Newcastle’s fingers.

Transfer Sagas and Missed Opportunities

The Magpies have found themselves entangled in repeated and ultimately fruitless transfer sagas involving a number of potential recruits. Pursuits of Manchester City’s Liam Delap, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, Brighton’s Joao Pedro, and Juventus defender Dean Huijsen all ended in disappointment. Whether it was due to inflated wage demands, disagreements over transfer fees, doubts about guaranteed playing time, or the magnetic pull of London-based clubs, Newcastle have struggled to get deals over the line.

While some targets moved elsewhere, others simply appeared unconvinced by the project in the North East. And now, according to fresh reports emerging from Germany, another exciting talent may be slipping out of reach.

Xavi Simons – A Reluctant Target?

RB Leipzig and Netherlands international Xavi Simons has recently been linked with a move to Newcastle United, but according to Sport Bild, the 22-year-old midfielder remains hesitant about a potential switch to Tyneside.

Simons, once hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young prospects during his time at PSG, joined Leipzig permanently last season in a big-money move. However, with the Bundesliga club failing to qualify for European competition, the Dutch star is reportedly seeking a fresh start elsewhere – ideally one that offers Champions League football.

It is understood that a fee in the region of £60 million could be sufficient to secure his services, and Newcastle, alongside Premier League rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, are among the clubs showing serious interest.

Yet despite Newcastle’s presence in Europe’s elite competition next season, Bild reports that Simons remains unconvinced by the idea of joining Eddie Howe’s side. The German outlet described it as “questionable whether Xavi is up for it,” casting doubt on his willingness to relocate to the North East – a region that, while passionate and historic, lacks the glamour and prestige of London or continental European cities.

No Formal Approach Yet – But Questions Linger

Importantly, Newcastle are yet to submit a formal offer for Simons, with their interest seemingly limited to internal discussions at this stage. His name has been floated as a potential alternative to Joao Pedro, who was once viewed as a versatile option capable of operating just behind Alexander Isak.

However, Simons does not naturally play as a central striker. Most of his appearances have come from the left side of midfield or as an attacking winger – positions where Newcastle already boast strong options in Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes. This raises the question: is Simons truly the right fit, and more importantly, does he want to be here?

Only Players Who Believe in the Project

While Newcastle’s recruitment strategy appears to be shifting away from prioritising Premier League-proven talent and toward scouting emerging stars from the European market, fans are beginning to question whether this new approach will bear fruit. Expressing interest is one thing – securing signings who are genuinely committed to the club’s vision is another.

Recent examples like Bruno Guimarães and Sven Botman have set the standard. Both players famously turned down more established clubs – Arsenal and AC Milan respectively – to become part of the Newcastle project. Since arriving, they’ve thrived and become integral figures in the team’s rise.

Newcastle supporters are now hoping for similar statements of intent from new recruits. The club reportedly backed away from Dean Huijsen after he appeared reluctant to commit, and that kind of decisiveness should remain a guiding principle. If a player isn’t all-in on playing Champions League football in black and white, then perhaps they aren’t the right fit.

Conclusion

As Newcastle United continue to navigate a difficult summer transfer window, the need for clarity, conviction, and ambition in recruitment has never been more critical. The club has the resources, the platform, and the trajectory to attract top talent – but only if the players in question believe in the journey ahead. With pre-season fast approaching, time is ticking for the Magpies to turn interest into signings and ensure the squad is ready to compete on all fronts in 2025–26.