has outlined the ‘key factors’ behind his decision to join instead of after completing a £58m transfer from Southampton.
Chelsea .
The 19-year-old, who impressed last season despite Southampton’s relegation from the , has signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
Liverpool were thought to be leading the race to sign Lavia earlier in the window and Southampton .
But Chelsea outbid Liverpool – as they also did to – and were buoyed by a belief that Lavia favoured a move to west London.
Explaining his decision to sign for Chelsea, Lavia told the club’s official website: ‘I’m really happy join Chelsea and be a part of this exciting project. It’s an amazing football club with a great history and I’m really excited to get started.
‘I can’t wait to meet all my new team-mates and build a chemistry together to achieve great things together.
‘I think the project and the ambitions of the club were key factors but also the history behind it so these were the three factors determining my decision.
‘It’s a very exciting time and I’ve played against a lot of the players we’ve signed and know how good they are. To join them here is a great feeling.’
Lavia becomes Mauricio Pochettino’s latest summer signing following the likes of Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson, Robert Sanchez and Caicedo.
The Blues drew 1-1 with Liverpool in their Premier League opener and make the short trip across London to face West Ham this weekend.
Discussing the signing of Lavia, Chelsea co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: ‘We are very pleased to welcome Romeo to Chelsea.
‘He demonstrated his quality in the Premier League last season at Southampton, showing maturity despite his young age, and is a player we have monitored for some time.
‘We believe he is ready to make an impact at Chelsea throughout the current campaign, and in the coming years.’
Lavia also sent a farewell message to Southampton fans following his move away from St Mary’s, posting on Instagram: ‘I’ve instantly felt the love for you all despite us not achieving our shared goals.
‘I’ll never forget the belief the club and Saints all around the world showed me and I hope I was able to repay the faith you put in me.’
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