Romeo Lavia listed three justifications for choosing Chelsea over Liverpool. The midfielder has finished his £58 million transfer from Southampton to the Blues.

Lavia told Chelsea’s website: “Three factors determined my decision. The project and the ambitions of the club were key factors in me choosing Chelsea, but also the history behind the club.

“It’s really exciting to be a part of this football club and to write some history. I’m really happy and proud. It’s a privilege to be able to put on this shirt.

“Most of the players we’ve signed are players I’ve played against, and thought ‘Ooooof, these players are good’, so to be able to work with them is a great feeling. They are young players and good players, so it will be good to make each other better. That’s the only way to succeed.”

Lavia is also excited to work under Pochettino. He said: “He’s a great manager. We all know what he’s done before.

“When I spoke to him, he was pretty clear on what he wanted, and the direction he wanted the team to go in. I was really pleased to hear what he wanted, and his energy was something that matched with mine.”