Newcastle United now interested in £60m star Lionel Messi once told Barcelona not to sign

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Newcastle United transfer target Xavi Simons once saw a potential move back to Barcelona reportedly blocked by a certain Lionel Messi.

Simons was linked with a move to Newcastle United in 2024, and the speculation has now continued into a second summer.

The Dutchman has been tipped to leave RB Leipzig in the coming weeks and months. The 22-year-old has played for the German club since 2023, but only made his loan move from Paris Saint-Germain permanent back in January.

Now, Newcastle are said to be keen to bring him to St James’ Park.

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Newcastle United interested in Xavi Simons

According to GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle are interested in Simons and his Leipzig teammate, Antonio Nusa. 

The report even claims Simons would be willing to move to the Premier League this summer. A fee of £60million has been floated, and his agents have reportedly spoken to English clubs including Newcastle. 

Last season, Simons scored 11 goals while registering eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions.

The former Barcelona youngster is able to operate on either wing or as a central attacking midfielder. 

Lionel Messi ‘warned’ Barcelona not to sign Xavi Simons

As mentioned above, Simons actually started his career in the famed Barcelona academy.  

He then moved to PSG before joining PSV in 2022. Simons moved back to the French capital in 2023 but later found his way to Leipzig on loan.

During his time at PSG, Simons crossed paths with Barcelona legend Messi.

Still, when reports emerged suggesting Barca were keen to bring Simons back to the Camp Nou in 2022, El Nacional claimed Messi told his former teammate Xavi, who was the manager at the club at the time, not to sign him.

It was said at the time that Messi did not think Simons had progressed enough.