Title: Chelsea Agrees Deal with Southampton for Midfielder Romeo Lavia
Date: August 15, 2023
In a surprise transfer move, Chelsea Football Club has reached an agreement with Southampton worth up to £58 million ($73.7 million) for the acquisition of talented midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to sources close to ESPN.
The deal will see Chelsea pay an initial fee of £53 million, with an additional £5 million to be paid through performance-related add-ons. It is reported that personal terms are not expected to be a hurdle, and the 19-year-old will undergo a medical examination later this week in preparation for his move to Stamford Bridge.
Prior to this, Liverpool had their £60 million ($76.2 million) offer for Lavia accepted by Southampton. However, the promising young player expressed his desire to join Chelsea, enabling the London club to negotiate a slightly reduced fee.
Lavia, who impressed during his one season at Southampton, had also attracted interest from Chelsea’s rivals, Liverpool. The Reds had recently agreed on a staggering British record fee of £111 million with Brighton for the transfer of Moisés Caicedo, only for the Ecuadorian midfielder to turn down the proposal.
The 19-year-old Lavia, originally from Manchester City’s youth academy, joined Southampton last summer. Despite his team’s relegation from the Premier League, Lavia made a notable impact, featuring in 29 league matches. Southampton, who initially signed Lavia for £10.5 million, will also owe a 20% sell-on fee to Manchester City as part of the agreement with Chelsea.
This latest signing adds to Chelsea’s already impressive midfield options, showcasing the club’s ambition to further strengthen their squad. Meanwhile, Liverpool will be left disappointed as another midfielder on their radar slips through their fingers, following their unsuccessful pursuit of Caicedo.
Chelsea’s acquisition of Lavia demonstrates their determination to secure top talent and remain competitive in domestic and international competitions. Fans will eagerly anticipate the midfielder’s arrival at Stamford Bridge and the impact he will make in the coming seasons.