Chelsea Extend Offer for Signing – Taking Precautions Against Potential Last-Minute Liverpool Move
According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri’s recent report on Friday, Chelsea has signaled their willingness to meet Southampton’s £50 million valuation in order to secure the services of Roméo Lavia. However, there remains a concern that Liverpool might attempt a last-minute swoop for the midfielder.
Tavolieri took to Twitter to provide an update on the ongoing tussle between Chelsea and Liverpool over the young midfielder.
He reveals that Chelsea and Southampton are edging closer to an agreement at a value of £52 million with an additional £3 million in potential bonuses. Despite the progress, the deal is not yet finalized, as there are still some additional details to be ironed out, which is expected to occur on Saturday.
Given Liverpool’s sustained interest in the 19-year-old, Chelsea is taking precautions to preempt any potential eleventh-hour move by the Reds to secure the Belgian international’s signature.
Such a scenario could transpire if Liverpool decides to match Southampton’s stipulated price. Tavolieri indicates that thus far, Liverpool has been hesitant to meet the financial demands. Chelsea’s co-director of recruitment, Joe Sheilds, is spearheading the pursuit of Lavia.
Reports from Het Laatste Nieuws (HLN) suggest that Mauricio Pochettino’s team, PSG, has also entered the fray, tabling an offer of €60 million alongside €5 million in potential bonuses to Southampton.
It is noted that Lavia had previously been linked with Liverpool for an extended period before Chelsea entered the competition for his signature.
HLN further explains that Shields, who was formerly a scout at Manchester City before a brief stint with Southampton in 2022, had played a role in signing Lavia for both clubs. Now, he is actively working to bring the young talent to Chelsea.
???? Agreement between #CFC & #SaintsFC now close to 52M£ + 3M£ add-ons. Not a done deal yet as it left some extra information to be exchanged tomorrow even if Soton accepted the fee as revealed this evening.
????????✍???? Blues wants to extend the number of contract years from 5 to 7… pic.twitter.com/aNnajwrR5g— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) August 12, 2023