According to Sky Sports, Chelsea are in advanced talks with Southampton to sign Belgium international midfielder Romeo Lavia.

The report adds there is a “cautious optimism” a full agreement can be reached on the deal.

Personal terms between Chelsea and Lavia are not expected to be a problem.

Liverpool have reached an agreement with Southampton to sign the 19 year old midfielder for £60million but the player has made it clear he wants to join Chelsea.

Lavia has four years left on his Southampton contract after joining from Manchester City last summer but was always expected to leave after Saints were relegated from the Premier League last season.