Chelsea to test Aston Villa's resolve for Morgan Rogers

Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers is a top target for Chelsea in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Rogers has been one of the standout players in the Premier League this season with eight goals and nine assists for Unai Emery's outfit.

The 22-year-old has also demonstrated his immense ability on the UEFA Champions League stage and his form for the Villans resulted in his inclusion in Thomas Tuchel's first England squad.

Rogers is one of Villa's most prized assets and an individual they believe can be the centrepiece to sustaining their place amongst the upper echelons of the Premier League.

However, amid reports that Villa may have to offload in the summer transfer window to allay profit and sustainability concerns, Rogers has been linked with a move away from Villa Park.

The Independent's chief football writer Miguel Delaney has revealed Chelsea are planning an ambitious move for Rogers as they attempt to manipulate Villa's PSR fears.

The strength of Villa's resolve is likely to hinge on whether they achieve qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season.

Courtesy of UEFA's awarding of an additional slot for Europe's elite club competition, five teams in the Premier League will now qualify for the UEFA Champions League and Villa find themselves embroiled in a tense battle with Chelsea for a top-five finish.

If Villa fail to finish fifth or higher and miss out on a second successive season in the UEFA Champions League, the vultures are likely to circle around several key players.

Rogers is the type of ball-carrying midfielder Enzo Maresca has been desperate for.

Despite speculation concerning his future, the Italian looks set to retain his role providing Chelsea qualify for the UEFA Champions League and Maresca will be given licence to refine his squad.

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Jaquob Crooke

• Chelsea F.C.
• Aston Villa F.C.
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