Arsenal’s long-time target and 40-goal, assist-breaking world-class striker has made it clear—he wants Liverpool! 

In one of the most dramatic twists of the summer transfer window, a world-class striker — long coveted by Arsenal and fresh off a season that saw him shatter the 40 goals and assists mark — has reportedly rejected the Gunners in favor of a dream move to Liverpool.

The striker, whose name has been at the heart of Arsenal’s transfer strategy for two seasons, has now reportedly made his intentions crystal clear to his current club’s management: Anfield is the only destination he’s considering.

This shocking development is not only a seismic shakeup of Liverpool’s attacking prospects under new head coach Arne Slot but also a devastating blow to Arsenal’s long-term project under Mikel Arteta.

With Arsenal desperately needing a lethal No. 9 to close the gap on Manchester City, this player was viewed as the final piece in their puzzle.

But now, as per multiple trusted sources, he wants Merseyside — not the Emirates.

So, who is this elite striker? What led to his sudden pivot to Liverpool? And what are the ramifications for Arsenal, Liverpool, and the broader Premier League landscape?

Let’s dive into the full story.

The Identity Revealed: Who Is the Striker Everyone’s Talking About?

While names like Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahović, and Benjamin Šeško have circulated in recent months, this particular player has recently hit global headlines for breaking the 40-goal/assist barrier in a top-five European league — a feat reserved only for the best of the best.

Insiders have confirmed: It’s Xavi Simons, the Dutch international whose stunning performances for RB Leipzig on loan from Paris Saint-Germain this season have made him Europe’s most in-demand forward.

With 22 goals and 18 assists across all competitions, Simons has redefined what it means to be a modern attacking force.

Initially linked heavily with Arsenal for over a year, with Edu and Arteta reportedly holding multiple meetings with his representatives, Xavi Simons has now told PSG that he wants Liverpool.

Why Liverpool? A Personal Preference That Changes Everything

According to multiple sources, Xavi Simons’ decision was not financially driven but instead tactical and personal.

“Xavi has immense respect for Arsenal, but he believes Liverpool’s structure, history, and the new tactical setup under Arne Slot suits his style best,” said a source close to the player.

There are three main reasons behind his decision:

1. Tactical Compatibility: Simons thrives in a free-roaming attacking role, often operating between the lines or wide right. Arne Slot’s 4-2-3-1 system favors exactly that — allowing him to combine with Mo Salah and Darwin Núñez in a fluid frontline.
2. Cultural Comfort: As a Dutch international, Simons is naturally drawn to Slot, whose Dutch background and playing philosophy align closely with what Simons grew up with in the Netherlands.
3. Long-Term Vision: Liverpool’s clear plan for life after Jürgen Klopp is convincing players across Europe. The club’s commitment to nurturing young superstars and giving them the keys to the team is reportedly a major selling point.

Arsenal Left Stunned

Make no mistake — this is a huge blow for Arsenal. The Gunners had earmarked Simons as the next marquee attacking signing after Kai Havertz and Declan Rice.

Arteta viewed him as the final attacking puzzle piece, capable of replacing Gabriel Jesus or rotating with Saka and Martinelli as a versatile offensive dynamo.

Edu reportedly made direct contact with Simons’ representatives last month, and Arsenal had prepared a mega bid with PSG’s approval to finalize the deal this summer.

But in the last 48 hours, Simons’ camp has reportedly told Arsenal:

“Thank you for the interest, but the player has chosen Liverpool.”

The Gunners are now scrambling to shift attention to other forward targets like Ivan Toney, Victor Boniface, or Dusan Vlahović — but none carry the same blend of youth, output, and technical ability as Simons.

 2023/24 Stats That Got Everyone Talking

Simons’ numbers this season have been mind-blowing, especially considering he’s only 21 years old:

• Games Played: 45
• Goals: 22
• Assists: 18
• Key Passes per Game: 3.1
• Dribbles Completed per Game: 4.6
• Chances Created: 92
• Expected Goal Involvement: 40.2

Across Bundesliga, DFB Pokal, and European competition, he’s been a standout performer — and he’s now considered one of the top five U23 players in the world.

 Arne Slot’s Plan: The Crown Jewel of the New Era?

Arne Slot has reportedly personally spoken to Simons and pitched him a central role in Liverpool’s post-Klopp rebuild.

The vision is to deploy him as a right-winger who can cut inside — either to score or create — especially as Salah transitions to a more central role in the next few seasons.

Imagine a front four of:

• Luis Díaz/Diogo Jota (LW)
• Xavi Simons (CAM or RW)
• Mohamed Salah (RW / ST)
• Darwin Núñez/Gakpo (CF)

That’s not just exciting — it’s terrifying for any defense in Europe.

Slot wants younger legs, high pressing, dynamic movement, and intelligent transitions in attack. Simons fits that model better than almost anyone on the market.

 What Are Liverpool Offering?

While PSG technically still owns Simons, the agreement between him and the club reportedly includes a buy-back clause and guaranteed playing time promises, which means PSG won’t stand in his way if he decides to leave permanently.

Liverpool is preparing an offer worth around £60 million, including performance-based add-ons and a high resale clause should PSG want first refusal in the future.

The deal is also expected to include a five-year contract, with the player set to earn a base salary of around £180,000 per week, rising with bonuses.

Fan Reaction—Liverpool Fans: “Make It Happen, NOW!”

The Anfield faithful are buzzing about the news.

On Twitter and Reddit, Liverpool fans have flooded timelines with messages like:

“Simons and Salah? Game over for the Premier League.”

“Arne Slot knows what he’s doing. What a signing this would be.”

“He turned down Arsenal for us. I’m crying real tears.”

On the flip side, Arsenal fans are devastated, with many blaming the club’s inability to close the deal earlier:

“We’ve been chasing him for two years. This is embarrassing.”

“No top striker wants to join Arsenal anymore. When will we learn?”

Expert Opinions

Football pundits and journalists have already begun weighing in.

Fabrizio Romano, in a cryptic post, hinted at “a Dutch international making waves with a decision that will shock a top-six club.”

Meanwhile, former Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher said on Sky Sports:

“If this goes through, Liverpool are cooking. Simons is elite. Fast, creative, and has a killer instinct. Slot is building something serious.”

Arsenal legend Ian Wright also weighed in:

“I’m gutted. I love this player. He’s everything we needed — and now he’s going to our rivals.”

 What This Means for the Premier League Title Race

If this deal gets finalized, Liverpool will suddenly find themselves firmly back in the title race conversation.

With their midfield already bolstered by the likes of Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, and Endo and their defense rejuvenated with young blood, adding a player of Simons’ caliber in attack could be the final spark.

Arsenal, on the other hand, will need to rethink their strategy. Without a clinical and dynamic forward, they may struggle again in high-pressure fixtures — something that cost them dearly in the title race last season.

 What’s Next?

According to sources close to the deal:

• Simons has formally rejected Arsenal’s advances.
• Liverpool have begun negotiations with PSG and are confident of reaching a deal.
• Arne Slot wants the player in place before pre-season begins, suggesting an announcement could come as early as next month.
• Personal terms have already been agreed in principle.

 Timeline to Watch

• Next 10 Days: Liverpool finalize fee with PSG
• Late April – Early May: Medical and contract signing
• Mid-June: Player unveiled as Liverpool’s marquee summer signing
• August 2025: Simons debuts for Liverpool at Anfield in the Premier League opener

 Final Thoughts

This transfer saga has everything: drama, heartbreak, ambition, and a new future being written.

While Arsenal will be left licking their wounds, Liverpool fans should prepare for a golden era of attacking football under Arne Slot.

Xavi Simons is not just a signing — he’s a statement. A world-class, modern forward who can dominate in England for the next decade.

With this move, Liverpool aren’t just replacing old legends —they’re building new ones.

Stay tuned. The next Liverpool No. 7 (or 10?) might just be boarding a flight from Paris very, very soon.