Southampton youngster Romeo Lavia has decided to join Chelsea despite Liverpool’s keen interest in the midfielder.
The 19-year-old Belgian was wanted by the Reds who had initially seen a bid of £45m rejected before the bidding war against Chelsea for Brighton and Hove Albion’s Caicedo.
Liverpool, however, missed out on the Ecuadorian who emphasised his willingness to join Chelsea rather than any other club prompting the Reds to get back to chasing Lavia with an improved bid.
Despite a reported bid of £60m being accepted by Southampton, Lavia has rather opted to join Chelsea according to credible sources.
David Ornsterin of the Athletic states that, a fee of around 50m plus add-ons is set to be accepted by the Saints due to the healthy relationship they have with Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano further explains that the player had been a long-term target for the Blues and is confident to commit his future to a club that has a lasting trust in his potential.
Roméo Lavia decides to join Chelsea as next club and step for his career. It has been communicated to Southampton — ready to close deal between clubs 🚨🔵
Chelsea are prepared to pay £50m fixed fee plus add-ons, as @David_Ornstein reported.#CFC want it done by Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/w4kvQRWBOF
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 14, 2023
The move when finalised will see Lavia join another Liverpool target Caicedo as Pochettino continues to fix the team which struggled atrociously during last season’s campaign.
Interesting Chelsea and Liverpool locked horns on Sunday at Stamford Bridge in a pulsating 1-1 draw.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are believed to have switched their attention to Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni who only joined the club last summer for €80m plus €20m add-ons
