Chelsea are said to be targeting a surprise raid on Southampton for teenage midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to reports from Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri. 

The Lowdown: Lavia impressing at Southampton

Having played just seven league matches for the Saints since his move from Manchester City in the summer, Chelsea have seen enough and are willing to splash out on the Belgian starlet. 

In that short space of time, Lavia ranks as the Saints’ best player this season according to Fotmob, with his defensive ability a standout quality, averaging 1.9 interceptions per 90 at St Mary's, the second-highest in Nathan Jones' squad.

The Latest: Chelsea targeting Lavia

As per a report from Sport Witness, who have relayed Tavolieri's tweet, Chelsea have targeted the 18-year-old as a potential successor to N’Golo Kante. 

Lavia is said to be 'in the sights' of the Blues, with Kante's contract at Stamford Bridge coming to an end next summer.

The Verdict: Logical and achievable 

Following Chelsea’s appointment of Joe Shields as Co-Director of Recruitment and Talent, having joined from Southampton in October, a move for Lavia seems both logical and achievable, given his connection with the Saints.

After all, Shields is the figurehead who brought Lavia across from Manchester City, where he was previously Head of Recruitment. 

It’s a logical move, with Lavia already looking at home in the Premier League and more than young enough to be the long-term successor to Kante at Stamford Bridge if he moves to west London.