Chelsea could move for Romeo Lavia after missing out on the signing of Manuel Ugarte to Paris Saint-Germain.
Lavia has attracted interest from a host of leading Premier League clubs after an impressive season at Southampton, with the teenager producing a number of eye-catching performances despite the Saints’ relegation.
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The 19-year-old is expected to leave Southampton this summer after the club’s drop into the second tier and is valued at around £45m at St Mary’s.
Chelsea made an approach to sign Lavia last summer, just weeks after the midfielder had signed for Southampton in a £12.5m deal from Manchester City, but saw a bid rejected.
The Daily Express are reporting that Chelsea are ready to reignite that interest in Lavia, with the Blues’ director of recruitment Joe Shields a big admirer of the midfielder. Shields was behind Lavia’s transfer to Southampton during his time working on the south coast, before a move to Stamford Bridge in October.
Lavia is also reported to have discussed a move to Chelsea with compatriot Eden Hazard, who has endorsed the club. The teenager made his debut for the Belgium national side in March.
Arsenal and Liverpool are also monitoring Lavia, but have priorities elsewhere at present. Manchester City are not thought to be interested in brining Lavia back to the club this summer, despite inserting a buy-back into his sale. The Premier League champions also have a 20% sell-on clause and will receive a windfall should Lavia move on for a big fee this summer.
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