Midfielder Romeo Lavia has been signed officially by Chelsea from Southampton.
The Blues, who sought to buy him last summer, will pay the Saints around £58 million, including add-ons, for a long-term deal with Lavia. The Belgian international has signed a long-term contract with Stamford Bridge after they successfully competed against Liverpool for his signing.
Lavia left Manchester City to join Southampton last summer, and in his debut year as a professional player, he distinguished himself as one of the Premier League’s brightest young prospects.
“We are delighted to welcome Romeo to Chelsea,” said Chelsea’s co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, who overcame their Liverpool colleagues in their attempt to sign Lavia.
“He showcased his talent in the Premier League at Southampton last year, displaying maturity despite his young age, and is a player we have been keeping an eye on for some time.”
Lavia gained access to Belgium’s first-team, but he was unable to save the Saints from being relegated. Before he departed from St Mary’s, he didn’t play a single minute for them in the Championship. When Chelsea visits London rivals West Ham United on Sunday, Lavia may make his debut.
