While Newcastle United are no longer looking for a centre-midfielder, a player they did target earlier in the summer is now set to sign for Chelsea.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side have already broken the British transfer record to land Moises Caicedo, who was previously heavily linked with a move to Tyneside. Now Chelsea are closing in on another midfielder who Eddie Howe eyed.
After being close to a move to Liverpool, Romeo Lavia is now reportedly on his way to Stamford Bridge.
The Belgian teenager is going to join Chelsea for £58million, as the West London club prepare to welcome another mega money signing.
Newcastle looked at Romeo Lavia
Lavia was linked with a move to Newcastle earlier this summer.
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At the time, the Magpies were looking at relegated players in hope of grabbing a bargain. That is why the likes of Tyler Adams and James Ward-Prowse were targets, while Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes actually did join Eddie Howe’s side.
But Lavia obviously did not, despite interest from Newcastle. After initially being keen, the club decided that Southampton’s demands were too high and took their business elsewhere.
It was a shame, but it made sense. Lavia had played one year of senior football and was being valued at more than £50million. Now he is joining Chelsea, and the fee could be nearer £60million with add-ons.
Newcastle bought Sandro Tonali instead
Instead, Newcastle went and bought Sandro Tonali. The Magpies got a player who is already extremely talented, as we saw at St James’ Park on Saturday. He is a Serie A winner, and has the scope to get even better as he is only 23.
And he cost £55million. In comparison to other midfielders moving clubs this summer, Newcastle have got an absolute bargain.
In an incredibly inflated market, the Toon owners have done some absolutely brilliant business this summer. The Tonali deal has to be the best of the lot, with Newcastle right to opt against moves for the likes of Lavia and Caicedo.
We have got a better player for less money.