Tottenham Hotspur managed to land one of the most impressive signings of the summer transfer window as they captured Xavi Simons.
Simons looked set to join Chelsea all summer long; however, the Blues failed to follow up on their initial interest, opening the door for Spurs.
Tottenham Hotspur took the opportunity with both hands and quickly wrapped up the deal, having seen moves for both Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze collapse.
The former PSG and Barcelona youth star is now expected to make his debut for the North London club in ten days away at West Ham United.
Thomas Frank’s key role in Xavi Simons’ move to Tottenham
Thomas Frank played a key role in convincing Xavi Simons to join Tottenham by telling him what he needed to improve, according to Alasdair Gold.
The new Spurs boss is believed to take a very direct approach during his talks with potential new signings by breaking down their strengths and weaknesses.
During an interview back in the Netherlands, the Dutch international said that Frank told him things he’s never heard from other coaches.
Gold told his YouTube channel: “He was sold on the project. Thomas Frank played a massive part in terms of presenting everything really well.
“He spoke to us about how these meetings with players, we know what Postecoglou’s were like, everyone raved about the storytelling he would do and the way he charmed them.
“Thomas Frank is a different kind of speaker; he is very honest and direct, he will not only tell you what you’re good at and where you can fit in his team, but also what you need to improve on and what he is going to improve about you, and that is what sold Xavi Simons.”
Just before he signed, TBR Football revealed that Simons had been impressed by Frank and that is why he was ready to make the switch to North London.
Also, during his interview back in Holland, Simons said he wants to play in the number ten role, and he is likely to be granted his wish.
With both Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison sidelined with injuries, the 22-year-old is set to replace the pair, playing in a central role.
Kulusevski is now set to be out until December, which is a huge blow for Frank’s team and puts extra pressure on Simons to hit the ground running.
Xavi Simons on taking the number seven shirt from Son Heung-min
Simons has admitted that it is a “big responsibility” to take Son Heung-min’s number seven shirt, but he is ready to make his own story with the number.
The Dutch international believes that “everyone loves Son” at the club, and he is now ready to wear the iconic number.
Simons told SpursOfficial: “He made his own story with this number, I think he deserved it as well, the way people treat him at the club and the fans. Everyone loves Son.
“Hopefully, I can make my own story with it. I know it’s a big responsibility, but I’m ready to take it and make my own story.