Bristol Rovers are closing in on a deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Harvey Vale, amidst European competition, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The 19-year-old is a versatile player who has risen through Chelsea’s academy, featuring 83 times across multiple age groups. Seeing first-team action in the 2021/22 season with five appearances across cup competitions, Vale was named Chelsea Academy Player of the Year in a breakout season.

Among a list of successful winners, the Englishmen also captained the England U19 team, who claimed the European Under-19 Championship on his way to being named in the Team of the Tournament.

With such an impressive resume for his age, the Gas is said to be facing competition from Belgium sides, however, he is said to be leaning towards a loan move to Rovers, according to Phillips.

A Positive Start To The Season?

Rovers have endured a difficult run of fixtures to start the season, however, has stepped up to the challenge and avoided defeat in the league. Starting the season with a 1-1 draw away to Portsmouth, the Gas followed that up with the same scoreline against last year’s League One playoff finalists’ Barnsley.

With League One Player of the Season Aaron Collins remaining at the club, Joey Barton could further use his Premier League contacts to strengthen his squad and bring in the talented Vale to push for the playoff places.

Writer’s View

As a Chelsea fan, I have seen Vale’s rise through the ranks and think this would be a major signing for Rovers. Vale has been one of Chelsea’s most talented youth players over the last couple of years, shining in a talented academy.

With his loan move at Hull City not going to plan last season due to a lack of game time causing issues with the manager, I didn’t expect Vale to drop down a level to League One this season. I can confidently say he is a Championship level player, and with the versatility to play anywhere on the left and behind the striker, this would be a huge signing by Barton.