However, the Athletic understands the west Londoners are set to sign him after a bid of £117m was accepted by Unai Emery’s side. A medical is also reportedly set for Monday, suggesting Chelsea want the deal to be wrapped up completely. In addition, it’s been claimed Rogers always wanted to move to Stamford Bridge, despite the recent interest from Arsenal.
This news will surely blindside the reigning Premier League champions, who appeared to be in a good position to sign the Englishman. With Mikel Arteta’s side recently agreeing to purchase Club Brugge ace Christos Tzolis, a move for Rogers was anticipated to be next.
Other reports had even described the attacking midfielder, who can also feature on both wings, as their top transfer target, with talkSPORT claiming a bid from the Gunners for the ex-Middlesbrough ace was imminent. Unless they have the appetite to take on Chelsea in a bidding war, they may not even be able to table an offer to the Midlanders.
Rogers has contributed two assists in six appearances for England at the World Cup. As well as providing the perfect cross for Gordon against Argentina, Rogers’ swirling shot baffled Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who spilled into the path of Jude Bellingham to score the winning goal for the Three Lions in the World Cup quarter-final.
Last season, Rogers helped himself to 14 goals and 12 assists in 55 appearances in all competitions for Villa. His finest contribution was the goal and assists he contributed in Villa’s Europa League final triumph over Freiburg.
It was these performances which convinced England boss Thomas Tuchel to take him to the World Cup instead of the likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer – his new Chelsea team-mate – and Morgan Gibbs-White. It’s now understood Villa had anticipated losing Rogers this summer, but were not going to budge unless a fee over £100m was tabled.
The Blues have more than surpassed that with their huge offer. It surpasses the £116million figure Manchester City paid for his ex-England team-mate Elliot Anderson. However, it’s not the most expensive of all time as Alexander Isak’s £125m move to Liverpool remains as the Premier League record transfer.