As stated by the Daily Mail, Chelsea is interested in signing Southampton’s young midfield talent Romeo Lavia, but they may have to pay a substantial fee for his services.
The club is looking to revamp its midfield during the summer transfer window, with Mason Mount and Mateo Kovacic potentially being sold due to their contracts expiring in 2024. Additionally, N’Golo Kante’s contract is set to expire at the end of this month.
Initially, Mauricio Pochettino had identified Manuel Ugarte from Sporting as the preferred signing to partner Enzo Fernandez, but Paris Saint-Germain swooped in and signed the player.
Consequently, Chelsea has revised their transfer plans and will now pursue a move for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo.
However, Brighton is expected to demand a fee of approximately £80 million for the Ecuadorian, as the Blues and Arsenal are both interested in signing him.
Considering the potential departure of three senior midfielders, Chelsea will need to make additional signings, and they have identified Lavia as another target. The Belgian starlet is on the club’s wish list from quite a long time.
Despite Southampton’s relegation, the 19-year-old had an impressive season in the Premier League, showcasing his composure and resistance to pressure.
Chelsea’s recruitment team holds admiration for Lavia and sees him as a potential partner to Fernandez and Caicedo. However, Southampton values him as their most valuable asset and could demand a hefty price tag of up to £50 million for the talented Belgian teenager.
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Lavia, formerly a Manchester City prospect, was transferred to Southampton in a £12.5 million deal that included significant clauses. One clause grants City the right to match any offers made for the player, while another is a buyback clause believed to be around £40 million.
The third clause entitles City to 20% of any future sale, meaning they would receive £10 million if Chelsea were to pay £50 million for Lavia.
Southampton is aware of the considerable interest in Lavia, with Liverpool also monitoring his progress, although Liverpool is currently prioritizing a move for Alexis Mac Allister.
Meanwhile, Chelsea must sell several players, including Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Conor Gallagher, to proceed with their squad overhaul.
