Romeo Lavia: Chelsea Nearing Deal for Talented Belgian Midfielder from Southampton

Chelsea are in advanced talks with Southampton over a deal for midfielder Romeo Lavia.

One source has told We News there is a "cautious optimism" a full agreement can be reached on the deal.

There are no anticipated issues regarding personal terms between Chelsea and Lavia.

Although Liverpool has a £60m agreement in place for Lavia, the player has expressed his preference to join Chelsea.

Liverpool have lost the opportunity to sign Moises Caicedo to Chelsea. The Blues have agreed to a British record deal with Brighton for Caicedo, worth £115m. This comes after Liverpool's offer of £111m was accepted, only for the 21-year-old to inform them of his decision to join Chelsea.

In their pursuit of bolstering their midfield, Chelsea were in talks with Leeds United for the signing of Tyler Adams. Unfortunately, these negotiations fell through last week due to an inability to reach an agreement.

Southampton remained steadfast in their £50m valuation of 19-year-old Lavia, with Chelsea putting forward a £48m offer last week. Despite three previous unsuccessful bids from Liverpool during this summer, the club stood their ground.

Lavia, who still has four years remaining on his Southampton contract since his move from Manchester City last year, has always been anticipated to depart following Saints' relegation from the Premier League in the previous season.

The Belgium international remained on the sidelines during Southampton's victory against Sheffield Wednesday on the first night of the season, and was not included in the squad for either the Carabao Cup loss to Gillingham on Tuesday or the thrilling 4-4 draw with Norwich on Saturday.

'An ongoing saga but it's advancing'

"This is another one of the ongoing sagas of the summer.

Liverpool's offer of £60m was accepted by Southampton on Monday morning, but no progress was made thereafter. The medical examination did not take place, and Lavia did not travel to Merseyside to initiate proceedings. There seemed to be a sense of stagnation. Meanwhile, Chelsea was quietly working on their own deal for the midfielder in the background. This indicates that Lavia may prefer a move to Chelsea. However, as of now, Southampton has not accepted any offer from Chelsea.

Explained: How are Chelsea staying in line with FFP rules?

Explained: How are Chelsea staying in line with FFP rules?

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