Romeo Lavia is one of many midfield targets Chelsea are interested in ahead of the summer transfer window. Following their failed attempt to acquire Manuel Ugarte from Sporting CP and alongside the pursuit of Moises Caicedo, the Blues have opened talks with Southampton to sig Lavia, football.london understands.
The 19-year-old made 35 appearances for the Saints and impressed, despite their relegation from the Premier League. Lavia only arrived at St Mary's last summer from Manchester City and following just a few bright displays, Chelsea enquired about signing him but he ultimately remained on the south coast and went on to score the winner against Chelsea just a few weeks later.
Mauricio Pochettino is said to want two new midfielders and football.london understands advances to sign Lavia are not being done instead of moves to bring in Caicedo. Likely knowing the level Lavia can reach, Southampton are remaining firm on their valuation which is between £40million-£50million.
With that said, football.london has rounded up the latest updates linking the Belgian midfielder with a summer switch to Stamford Bridge.
Arsenal interest
Arsenal are interested in signing Lavia this summer and could offer a major obstacle for Chelsea as they look to sign the teenage sensation.
"Arsenal have concrete and strong interest in Romeo Lavia," tweeted Fabrizio Romano. "Relationship is excellent with his camp — talks already took place.
"Timing will be crucial as Chelsea remain interested. Man United appreciate Lavia but still not advancing. City buy back clause only valid 2024," finished Romano.
Chelsea open talks
Chelsea have opened talks with Southampton to sign Romeo Lavia this summer, football.london understands.
The Blues are hoping to significantly bolster their midfield department in the upcoming transfer window with the 19-year-old seen as a perfect addition by many at Stamford Bridge
Southampton price tag
Chelsea will have to part ways with between £40million-£50million to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia this summer, according to the Daily Mail.
A possible reason for the Saints' high valuation is because of the three clauses inserted into his contract following his departure from Manchester City. The first is in regard to City being allowed to match any bid that arrives for Lavia with a buyback clause – thought to be around £40million – also inserted into his contract
The final clause entitles City to 20% of any future sale, meaning they would receive £10million if Chelsea paid £50million for Lavia.
Eden Hazard role
Southampton's Romeo Lavia has been speaking to Chelsea legend Eden Hazard about his experiences at Stamford Bridge with the Blues interested in acquiring his signature.
According to a report from the Express, Lavia's fellow Belgian is said to have actively encouraged him to take the chance to join the Blues if the opportunity arrives.
Secret weapon
Chelsea may hold a secret weapon in their transfer pursuit of Romeo Lavia in the form of director Joe Shields.
The former Southampton chief negotiated Lavia's move to Southampton from Manchester City and could therefore look to do the same at his new position in west London.
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