Tottenham set to beat Chelsea in pursuit of RB Leipzig star

Simons is reportedly already in London and has agreed to personal terms, with only the medical and final paperwork left to complete. If confirmed, it would represent one of Tottenham’s most ambitious moves of the summer and a major statement in the transfer market.

Chelsea had been strongly linked with the 22-year-old throughout the window, but Spurs accelerated talks in recent days to move ahead of their London rivals. 

With Chelsea focused on other targets, having secured Alejandro Garnacho, and hampered by Financial Fair Play restrictions, Tottenham took control of the race.

For Thomas Frank's side, the deal addresses a pressing need. A long-term injury to James Maddison and a lack of depth in creative areas, compounded by Son Heung-min's departure, left Spurs short of attacking options. 

Earlier in the window, they missed out on several targets, most notably Eberechi Eze. The then-Crystal Palace playmaker appeared close to joining Tottenham before Arsenal hijacked the deal at the last moment, a reminder that in the transfer market, nothing is done until the contracts are signed.

That experience casts a shadow over the Simons negotiations. While Romano’s “here we go” indicates the deal is effectively sealed, Tottenham will remain wary of any late twists, particularly with Chelsea monitoring developments.

Simons arrives with pedigree and promise. A graduate of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, he moved to Paris Saint-Germain before breaking out at PSV Eindhoven and then impressing in the Bundesliga with Leipzig. 

Last season, he delivered 17 goal involvements in 25 league appearances, showcasing both creativity and maturity beyond his years.

For Tottenham, completing the signing would not only secure one of Europe’s brightest young talents but also deliver a morale-boosting victory over a direct rival. Still, with the memory of the Eze saga fresh, Spurs know the deal will only be celebrated once the ink is dry.