Aston Villa have agreed to sell Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for a British-record fee of £117m.
The 23-year-old is set to sign a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea holding an option for another season.
Rogers will undergo his medical on Monday after completing his World Cup duties with England.
The agreement gives Villa an extraordinary return on a player signed from Middlesbrough for a package worth up to £15m in February 2024.
Middlesbrough are due a significant payment because of the sell-on clause included in that transfer. Even after that deduction, Villa will receive substantial funds to reinvest in Unai Emery’s squad.
Villa face major Rogers replacement decision
According to The Athletic, Rogers wanted to join Chelsea after being convinced by Xabi Alonso and the club’s plans.
Arsenal were also interested, but Chelsea moved quickly to reach an agreement with Villa and arrange the medical.
Rogers leaves an enormous attacking gap at Villa Park. He contributed 14 goals and 12 assists across 55 appearances last season as Emery’s side won the Europa League and qualified for the Champions League.
He developed into one of Villa’s most important players after arriving from the Championship, recording 31 goals and 29 assists in 125 appearances.
Villa had protected their position with a long-term contract and maintained that only an exceptional offer would convince them to sell.
Read Aston Villa reported on Friday that interest in Rogers was increasing, although Villa remained in control because of his contract.
The club have already signed Johan Manzambi and are finalising João Gomes’ arrival. Neither provides a direct replacement for Rogers’ goals, versatility and ball-carrying ability.
Villa have secured the record fee they demanded. Their next recruitment decision will determine how successfully Emery replaces the player at the centre of his attack.
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