Tigers land Simons on long-term deal from Premier League giants Chelsea

BRIGHT FUTURE: Midfielder Xavier Simons. Pictures by Hull City

By Simon Bristow

Hull City have announced the permanent signing of Xavier Simons from Premier League giants Chelsea for an undisclosed fee.

The 20-year-old midfielder, who initially joined the Tigers on a season-long loan from the Blues in September, has signed a long-term contract at the MKM Stadium which runs until the summer of 2026, and includes a club option of a further year.

The highly-rated midfielder made his Championship debut against Birmingham in October as a second-half substitute at the MKM Stadium.

Simons had to remain patient for his next opportunity, but having impressed Liam Rosenior during the mid-season trip to Türkiye, he made two further appearances for the Tigers in January. He made his full debut in Black and Amber against Fulham in the FA Cup before coming on as a late substitute against Queens Park Rangers a few weeks later in the Championship.

After Jean Michaël Seri sustained an injury against Norwich City in February, Simons was given a run in the starting line-up. He produced a player of the match performance in his first league start against Preston North End before retaining his place in the team for the games against Bristol City, West Bromwich Albion and Coventry City.

Head coach Liam Rosenior said: “I’m absolutely delighted to tie Xavier down on a long-term deal.

“We’ve worked really hard to get Xavi to commit his future to the club and he’s a big part of my plans.

“He’s got undoubted potential and quality, an outstanding attitude and trains at 100 per cent all the time.

“He’s got Premier League physicality and athleticism. If we can help him improve his technical aspects and tactical understanding of the game, we’ve got a fantastic asset for the club.”