Club believe they own the world’s best young holding midfielder, Chelsea are now in talks to sign him

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Southampton hold Romeo Lavia – who Chelsea are currently trying to sign – in very, very high regard.

The extent of their admiration was made explicitly clear by Paul Joyce in The Times.

So, what do Southampton think of Chelsea target Romeo Lavia? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well, it is said that Southampton believe they possess the best young No.6 on the planet in the Belgium international.

Lavia only has one season of senior football under his belt, as he starred for the Saints in the 2022/23 campaign after they plucked him from Manchester City’s academy in a £14m deal.

Nevertheless, the 19-year-old looked composed beyond his years, in what is arguably the hardest position in modern day football, right at the base of midfield.

Lavia was tasked with receiving the ball from Southampton’s defenders and goalkeeper under intense pressure, although he was able to regularly spin away from trouble and start attacks.

That explains why Chelsea are keen to sign him.

The Daily Mail believe those at Stamford Bridge remain in talks with Southampton over a deal for Lavia, and he could even be signed in addition to Moises Caicedo, rather than instead of the Ecuador international.

Chelsea should not ignore Romeo Lavia

We understand the obsession with Caicedo, as he too is a special talent.

However – with Liverpool also pushing hard to sign Lavia – we think Chelsea should actually be trying a little harder to sign the teenager, especially as the Blues are yet to submit a bid.

The Belgian is a rare footballer – teenagers should not be able to scan the midfield, spin away from seasoned professionals and make them look amateurish like Lavia can do.

With Mauricio Pochettino able to use his fine coaching ability to polish these skills at Cobham, we feel Chelsea should start to push harder for Lavia, who looks set for the very top.