Romeo Lavia has revealed the ‘three factors’ that were behind his decision to snub a move to Liverpool and join Chelsea instead.
The West London club confirmed the signing of Lavia on Friday morning, bringing an end to one of the longest-running transfer sagas of the summer. The 19-year-old has signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
However, for most of the summer, it looked as though Lavia, who made 34 appearances in all competitions last season but could not help prevent the Saints’ relegation from the Premier League, would be on his way to Liverpool.
Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox confirmed earlier this week that his club did accept a bid from the Reds for Lavia after they had previously had two bids rejected for the Belgium international.
But in the end, it was Chelsea who won the battle for Lavia, with it becoming clear last week that the 19-year-old’s preference was for a move to the capital rather than Merseyside.
“Three factors determined my decision,” he said after his transfer was confirmed. “The project and the ambitions of the club were key factors in me choosing Chelsea, but also the history behind the club.
“It’s really exciting to be a part of this football club and to write some history. I’m really happy and proud.
“It’s a privilege to be able to put on this shirt. Most of the players we’ve signed are players I’ve played against, and thought ‘Ooooof, these players are good’, so to be able to work with them is a great feeling.
“They are young players and good players, so it will be good to make each other better. That’s the only way to succeed.”
