Romeo Lavia has been on Chelsea's radar since last years summer transfer window when they launched a late bid for him, and they have not let their interest wane.

Lavia is still a primary target for Chelsea and he is one of two main targets the club want to sign in the middle of the park this summer along with Moises Caicedo from Brighton.

Talks have began between the two clubs but their remains a gap on valuation.

As reported by Felix Johnston, Chelsea have opened talks with Southampton over the signing of Romeo Lavia.

Both clubs are apart on a valuation right now, with Southampton valuing Lavia at more than £40million. Chelsea are likely to want to sign the Belgian for around the £40million mark.

Lavia has other suitors in the shape of Manchester United and Liverpool but it is felt that Joe Shields being at Chelsea gives them a massive boost. The former Southampton director has been pushing Chelsea to sign Lavia.

Chelsea are also chasing Moises Caicedo and are expected to match any bid Arsenal put in for him. Arsenal are preparing a bid for Caicedo worth around £75million, but Brighton are likely to look for more.

Lavia and Caicedo are Chelsea's main midfield targets after missing out on Manuel Ugarte who signed for PSG today. The expectation is for them two to be alongside Enzo Fernandez on the opening day of the season.