Former Man City youngster's £50m deadline day move fell through and more transfer rumours

Chelsea made a late move to try and sign former Manchester City youngster Romeo Lavia on transfer deadline day in a last-ditch attempt to reinforce their midfield – but had a £50 million bid rejected by Southampton.

Saints signed the midfielder for around £12 million earlier in the summer, with City retaining a £40 million buy-back clause for the 18-year-old who has enjoyed a stunning start to his Premier league career. Chelsea instead opted to sign Swiss international Dennis Zakaria after failing in their bid to buy the young Belgian, according to the Southern Daily Echo.

The midfielder scored in a win against the Blues last week and is viewed as a top prospect, this is reflected in the £50 million reportedly offered by the west London club in order to secure the player's services. However, with the player's form in the opening weeks of the season, there is a belief that his market value will only increase and Southampton are not thought to be in a rush to sell the player.

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However, they would be obliged to allow talks to happen should City come in with a similar bid for the Belgian midfielder after a £40 million buy-back clause was inserted into his contract, as has been previously reported by the Manchester Evening News.

Meanwhile, City have been dealt a blow with Chelsea star Reece James set to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge following links with a move away this summer. The Athletic report that the England right-back is set to sign a new deal having been linked with a move this summer.

An announcement has not yet been made, but after a strong start to the season, a place in the England squad for the Qatar World Cup looks likely and a long-term role at his