Romeu could be returning to La Liga.
Chelsea youngster Oriol Romeu could be on his way back to Spain as Valencia prepare a bid for the talented midfielder, reports Super Deporte.
A difficult season at Stamford Bridge has led the young Spaniard into considering his future in west London and with so many midfield departures from the Mestalla Stadium, Valencia are preparing to swoop in.
A knee injury and Blues interim manager Rafael Benitez’s reluctance to play Romeu saw the 21-year-old’s second campaign at Chelsea lacking many first team opportunities.
The former Barcelona B player made just 10 appearances for the Europa League winners and was constantly on the fringes of the side.
This is in contrast to Romeu’s first season at the Bridge, after being brought in as a £4.4m replacement for the injured Michael Essien, with the midfielder playing 24 times including 16 matches in the Premier League.
With the Spain under-21 international having been out of action for six months and the return of Jose Mourinho at the Blues, Valencia are hoping the youngster wants a switch to La Liga.
Romeu is unsure of his future at the Bridge under Mourinho and despite having two years left on his current deal, is thought to be willing to forego some of that money to force a transfer to Les Che.
Valencia are looking to bounce back following a disappointing 2012/13 themselves, having finished out of the Champions League places in fifth in the Spanish top flight.
Key midfielders Tino Costa and David Albelda have subsequently left the club and manager Miroslav Djukic is targeting Romeu as the first brick in the rebuilding process.
COMMENTS