Romeo Lavia to Chelsea transfer: Arsenal struggle, talks opened, Man City clause, Man Utd stance

Southampton star Romeo Lavia has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea as Mauricio Pochettino looks to sign two new central midfielders

Romeo Lavia is one of the many midfield targets Chelsea are interested in ahead of the summer transfer market.

Following their failed attempt to sign Manuel Ugarte from Sporting CP and coupled with the pursuit of Moises Caicedo, the Blues have opened talks with Southampton to sign Lavia, football.

london has learned.
The 19-year-old made 35 appearances for Saints and has impressed despite relegation from the Premier League.

Lavia only arrived at St Mary’s from Manchester City last summer and after a few brilliant performances, Chelsea applied to sign him, but he ended up staying on the south coast and scoring the winner against Chelsea a few weeks later.

Mauricio Pochettino would like two new midfielders and football.london understands that no progress has been made to sign Lavia rather than moves to bring in Caicedo.

Probably aware of the level Lavia can reach, Southampton remain firm on his valuation, which is between £40m and £50m.

That said, football.london has finalized the latest updates linking the Belgian midfielder to a summer move to Stamford Bridge.

Arsenal are interested in signing Lavia this summer and he could be a major obstacle for Chelsea if they want to sign the teenage sensation

“Arsenal have a concrete and strong interest in Romeo Lavia,” tweeted Fabrizio Romano. “His relationship with the pitch is excellent, the talks have already taken place.

“Timing will be crucial as Chelsea remain interested. Manchester United appreciates Lavia, but is not progressing yet. The city’s buyout clause is only valid in 2024,” Romano said.

Chelsea open talks

Chelsea have opened talks with Southampton to sign Romeo Lavia this summer, football.london has learned.

The Blues are hoping to significantly boost their midfield in the upcoming transfer window, with the 19-year-old seen by many at Stamford Bridge as a perfect asset.

Chelsea will have to give up between £40m and £50m to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia this summer, according to the Daily Mail.

One possible reason for the Saints’ high rating is the three clauses included in his contract following his departure from Manchester City.

The first concerns City’s ability to match any offer that comes in for Lavia with a buyout clause – believed to be in the region of £40m – which is also included in his contract.

The final clause entitles City to 20% of any future sale, meaning they would receive £10m if Chelsea paid £50m for Lavia.

Role of Eden Hazard

Southampton’s Romeo Lavia spoke to Chelsea legend Eden Hazard. about his experience at Stamford Bridge with the Blues interested in signing him.

According to a report by the Express, Lavia’s compatriot is said to have actively encouraged him to jump at the chance to join the Blues should the opportunity arise.
Secret weapon

Chelsea may have a secret weapon in their hands in their pursuit of Romeo Lavia’s transfer in the form of playmaker Joe Shields.

The former Southampton boss has negotiated Lavia’s move from Manchester City to Southampton and would therefore like to do the same in his new position in west London.