Arsenal Eye Leipzig Swap: Vieira for Simons Replacement?

Arsenal could offer RB Leipzig the chance to sign Fabio Vieira as the replacement for Xavi Simons. (Image: (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images))

Arsenal could see an unlikely transfer scenario play out that would see them back in discussions with RB Leipzig. The two parties held extensive talks for Benjamin Sesko, but no breakthrough was met as the German team held firm on their stance of wanting £77.9million (€90m) paid upfront.

Eventually, sporting director Andrea Berta moved onto and successfully wrapped up a £63.5million (€73m) deal for Viktor Gyokeres. Other Premier League clubs soon took an interest in Sesko with Manchester United set to win the race for his signature over Newcastle United.

With the add-ons in the deal very achievable, as per Fabrizio Romano, United look set to pay £73.8million (€85m) for his services though just £66.2million (€76.5m) of that will be guaranteed.

As they will not play in Europe, during the 2025/26 season, Leipzig losing their star assets was always considered likely with attacking midfielder Xavi Simons also expected to depart.

Personal terms being agreed are not an issue, but exactly how much that transfer will be is currently unclear. The Bundesliga outfit are no longer in a position to demand a significant fee but given his potential, he could still cost £60.6million (€70m).

With two key players seemingly set to leave, replacements may be needed. Striker Lois Openda being at the club has seemingly made finding a new attacking midfielder the priority with Liverpool's Harvey Elliot emerging as their top target.

The England under-21 international is expected to depart Anfield permanently this summer - in search of regular first-team minutes - with Liverpool wanting at least £40million to sell.

Though Leipzig have funds available to afford that asking price, they may not value Elliot quite as highly or would prefer to spend elsewhere. For exactly half that price, a more than suitable replacement in Arsenal's Fabio Vieira is available.

Players are regularly offered to clubs by agents and that could be the case here, though Arsenal may have to work quickly with talks already underway for him to join Stuttgart . A second Bundesliga club joining the race could result in his £20million asking price increasing through a bidding war.

Arsenal will be hoping that is the case having yet to sanction a big sale after spending roughly £200million on six new signings.