Romeo Lavia: Belgian Midfielder Explains Reason He Joined Chelsea Over Liverpool

Romeo Lavia: Belgian Midfielder Explains Reason He Joined Chelsea Over Liverpool

  • Romeo Lavia's future was a significant subject of debate through the 2023 summer transfer window
  • The Belgian midfielder, who burst onto the scene with Southampton, would eventually pen a deal with Chelsea
  • Ahead of the start of the new season, the defensive midfielder explained why he joined the London club over Liverpool

Romeo Lavia made headlines throughout much of the 2023 summer window following his brilliant season with Southampton.

Despite suffering relegation with the Saints, the Belgian midfielder became a target for both Chelsea and Liverpool.

While reports suggested Lavia was close to signing with Liverpool, he surprised many by choosing to join Chelsea instead.

Romeo Lavia in action for Chelsea.
Romeo Lavia during the pre-season friendly between Chelsea and FC Internazionale at Stamford Bridge on August 11, 2024. Image: Marc Atkins.
Source: Getty Images

Nonetheless, as the new Premier League season approaches, the Manchester City academy graduate has taken the opportunity to explain what really transpired and why he ultimately chose Chelsea over Liverpool.

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Lavia explains reason for joining Chelsea over Liverpool

In an interview reported by Mail Online, the young Belgian midfielder took the opportunity to share his perspective on the transfer saga.

"You've never heard my side of the story," Lavia stated.
"It's always been about what you read in the media. Sometimes it seemed like you knew more than I did!
"When Chelsea expressed interest, even before the transfer rumours began, it was a no-brainer for me. Although Liverpool's interest was real, I had already set my sights on playing for Chelsea.
"If you look at all the teams, Chelsea is the one that's on the rise. You can see the bigger picture. When I saw a group of young, talented players who had been standout performers at their previous clubs, I knew it could only be a positive move. Now that I’m here, I see that’s true."

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Unfortunately, Lavia's transfer to Chelsea has not gone as planned. According to Fotmob, the 20-year-old has made only one official appearance for the club since joining.

Lavia will be hoping for more opportunities under the new manager, Enzo Maresca.

Antonio Conte demands two players for Osimhen

Briefly News in another report detailed that Napoli coach, Antonio Conte, has demanded two players to facilitate the transfer of Victor Osimhen.

The Italian manager is reported to want the services of both Romelu Lukaku and Cesare Casadei, in addition to a significant transfer fee, to let go of the Nigerian striker.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Viginia Akinyi avatar

Viginia Akinyi (sports editor) Viginia Akinyi is the current import editor at Briefly News. She holds a B.Sc. in Communication and Public Relations from Moi University and has previously worked with Lolwe TV, Daily Nation Eldoret Bureau and SportsBrief.com. Email: viginia.akinyi@briefly.co.za