What’s REALLY going on with titanic Morgan Rogers transfer explained – Chelsea belief, Aston Villa stance, record-breaking price | OneFootball

Sources have shed light on all aspects of what the future holds for Aston Villa and England’s in-demand playmaker, Morgan Rogers, with Chelsea believing he’ll be worth every penny of his mammoth valuation.

Chelsea’s interest in Aston Villa star Rogers remains as strong as ever, sources have confirmed, despite Villa making clear that only an extraordinary offer would tempt them into even thinking about a sale next summer.

Rogers signed a contract extension in November that commits him to Villa Park until 2031, and the Midlands club remain adamant that they have no intention of allowing their prized No.10 to leave.

Internally, they regard him as the best young playmaker in Europe and a cornerstone of their long‑term project.

The 23‑year‑old has enjoyed a standout Premier League season, registering 13 goal contributions (eight goals, five assists).

His rapid rise has put him firmly on course to become England’s No.10 at the World Cup, ahead of household names like Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Phil Foden. That is a major factor in Villa’s refusal to consider any cut‑price talks.

Villa’s most expensive sale remains Jack Grealish’s £100m move to Manchester City in 2021, but sources admit Rogers’ current standing places his valuation above that figure, even while insisting a sale is not being entertained.

Chelsea’s admiration for Rogers is longstanding, with co‑director of recruitment Joe Shields particularly keen on a reunion.

Shields originally signed Rogers for Manchester City during his time leading their youth recruitment, having tempted him away from West Brom.

Chelsea have repeatedly backed Shields’ talent‑spotting instincts, which have already led to the arrivals of Palmer, Liam Delap and Romeo Lavia — all players he previously identified.

While Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United all hold a genuine and long‑term appreciation for Rogers, TEAMtalk understands Chelsea remain the most determined and proactive suitors.

The Blues believe he fits perfectly into their long‑term strategy and see him as a player worth fighting for, regardless of Villa’s towering valuation.

With Villa unmoved in their stance and Rogers’ stock rising rapidly, the stage is set for one of the defining transfer battles of the summer — and Chelsea are already positioning themselves at the front of the queue.

In other news, Real Madrid have made an enquiry about Gabriel Magalhaes, the Arsenal star defender, but sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk that the Spanish giants were quickly informed there is .

Elsewhere, Manchester United are the best placed club to sign their number one target for the holding midfield role with Liverpool and Tottenham both lagging behind, and the cost of doing business could be as much as £30m below initial expectations.