Chelsea agree deal to sign Romeu

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Chelsea have agreed a deal with Barcelona for the signing of midfielder Oriol Romeu.

Romeu, 19, made his Barca debut at the end of last season but is not in boss Pep Guardiola’s long-term plans at the Nou Camp.

The player has been given permission to discuss personal terms with Chelsea, who have been interested in him for some time.

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas was particularly keen to sign a midfielder given that Michael Essien will be sidelined for around six months with a knee problem.

“It is an area of the squad we are struggling with because of Michael”s injury, and Oriol is a player with a bright future,” said Villas-Boas.

“He is one of the most promising young players in that position, so hopefully we can agree personal terms and hopefully he will pass a medical.”

Romeu is currently with Spain’s squad at the Under-20 World Cup.