Chelsea tracked the Netherlands international for much of the transfer window but never made a formal bid to RB Leipzig, instead focusing on moving players out before considering a deal.
That hesitation allowed Spurs to step in late and secure Simons in a move worth around fifty-one point eight million pounds.
The 22-year-old, who can operate as a No.10 or from the left wing, has been brought in to help fill the creative void left by James Maddison’s ACL injury and the absence of Dejan Kulusevski. Tottenham had previously missed out on targets Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze.
Speaking to Eindhovens Dagblad, Simons explained: “The manager told me a lot. Positive things, but also things I need to improve. It’s fantastic how he sees football, how he wants to make players better. Spurs is the right place for me to develop. It’s great that he was honest. As a player, you see a coach more than your family.”
The Dutchman added that Frank highlighted areas he must develop but chose to keep those details private. He stressed that the candour from Tottenham’s boss was different from what he had previously heard from other managers.
Jamie Carragher also praised the signing on Sky Sports, recalling when his son faced Simons in youth international football. “I watched Xavi Simons play against my son for Holland, and I was close to the pitch. You really get a good feel for a player. He’s got great quality, real good ability,” Carragher said.
Tottenham’s summer business drew positive reviews, with The Athletic ranking Simons 13th among 151 transfers across Europe. Deadline-day arrival Randal Kolo Muani was also rated highly, coming in at 20th.
Frank has said Spurs are building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, with Simons expected to play a central role in their plans for both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
