Manchester United and Newcastle United are allegedly monitoring the progression of PSV Eindhoven midfielder Xavi Simons.
Before the start of this season, Simons was regarded as a highly-rated youngster who was not getting enough opportunities at Paris Saint-Germain.
However, a switch to PSV has enabled the 19-year-old to showcase his ability, already contributing 15 goals and eight assists from 37 appearances in all competitions.
The performances of the versatile playmaker were enough to earn him a spot in Netherlands' World Cup squad, the prospect making his international debut in a seven-minute outing during the last 16.
When making the switch to PSV, Simons penned a five-year contract, but PSG possess a buy-back clause which can be activated as soon as later this year.
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As it stands, it is unclear whether the French giants are in a position to go down that route, particularly when there is uncertainty over the likes of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe.
Nevertheless, there is likely to be an acceptance at fellow interested parties that they may be in a race against time with PSG to sign one of the best prospects in world football.
According to transfer expert Ekrem Konur, Man United and Newcastle are taking an interest in the situation.
Konur claims that the Red Devils and Magpies have already had scouts in attendance to assess the attacker, who can play in a wide array of positions.
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More often than not, Simons has been used centrally during 2022-23, but he has also had success playing off either flank or when leading the frontline.
Both Man United and Newcastle may feel that they could benefit from such attributes, potentially the latter who have struggled for goals since the turn of the year.
Given the emergence of Alejandro Garnacho and revival of Jadon Sancho, Man United are well stocked for alternatives in the final third, but signing Simons would still be regarded as a notable coup.
PSG's buy-back clause, according to 90min, is said to stand in the region of €10m (£8.8m), although that will reportedly rise year upon year.
Darren Plant
