Liverpool dealt another transfer blow as Romeo Lavia picks Chelsea over Reds

Chelsea have beaten Liverpool to the signing of another defensive midfielder after Romeo Lavia decided to join the Blues. 

Lavia is expected to leave St Mary’s for Stamford Bridge in a deal worth around 50 million pounds with performance-related add-ons. 

According to a report from the Athletic, Chelsea have won the race for Southampton’s highly-rated midfielder.

The 19-year-old has been a subject of a transfer battle between the Premier League giants following Southampton’s demotion to the Championship.

However, Lavia has dealt Jurgen Klopp and everyone at Anfield a big blow with his decision to join Mauricio Pochettino.

Per the report, the Belgian youngster has made Liverpool aware of his choice and is ready to join the revolution at Stamford Bridge.

Liverpool’s manager Klopp is in the market for a defensive midfielder as he looks to strengthen his midfield following the departures of Fabinho and captain Jordan Henderson.

The German identified Lavia and Caicedo as possible replacements but had Chelsea to contain with.

While the Reds had a bid for Moises Caicedo accepted by Brighton and Hove Albion, Southampton rejected three bids from them for Lavia.

But in what has become a remarkable turnaround, Caicedo rejected a move to Anfield with the Ecuadorian making it clear that his heart is at Chelsea.

And now, Liverpool have suffered a second blow with Lavia preferring the Blues to the Reds, who were visitors at Stamford Bridge on Sunday for their 2023/2024 season opener which ended 1-1.