The Blues are making big progress towards winning the race for Simons, despite a clue suggesting the contrary from RB Leipzig's latest pre-season test on Saturday

Despite negotiations with Chelsea: Xavi Simons is in RB Leipzig’s starting lineup for the friendly against Toulouse. Still no agreement has been reached; talks are ongoing - while Leipzig continue to demand a total package of €70m (including add-ons). There is still no… pic.twitter.com/HvrgoDa7Yo

Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of RB Leipzig midfielder Xavi Simons, sources have told ESPN. The 21-year-old is open to joining the Premier League club and Leipzig are willing to sell despite only signing Simons on a permanent basis in January for an initial fee of €50 million ($58.8m).