Arsenal and Chelsea could step up their chase of Romeo Lavia as clauses in his contract make him a viable target for the Londoners.
According to Football Insider, Arsenal and Chelsea are ramping their efforts to sign Romeo Lavia in the summer. The £45 million-rated Manchester United target might depart if Southampton suffer relegation.
Romeo Lavia was a player of unknown quantity before Southampton snapped up the 19-year-old for £12 million last summer. Many could claim the club got a tremendous deal from his performances for the Saints this season by signing the midfielder.
Manchester City inserted a few clauses that could determine his market value if Southampton decides to sell him. As revealed earlier, Manchester City hold interest and reportedly have a £40 million buy-back clause inserted in the contract.
The current report states the clause will only become active in 2024, meaning other clubs, like Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United, could pounce on the opportunity this summer. Lavia may like returning to Manchester City. But the other big suitors may allow him to play more.
Lavia’s position and Manchester City’s insistence on a single pivot will make him Rodri’s deputy at the club. He may become an alternative to Kalvin Phillips, who continues to have a disastrous season. Meanwhile, there is interest from Manchester United in the £45 million-rated star. However, a 20% sell-on clause inserted by Manchester City could become problematic for the Red Devils.
Erik ten Hag is keen on a new midfielder to shore up his squad. Casemiro has been an enormous success at Old Trafford, and now the need for a partner remains crucial. Lavia impressed the Manchester United boss during Southampton’s recent visit, and they could make a move for the 19-year-old.
As things stand, Arsenal and Chelsea seem like the front-runners for Lavia. The 19-year-old midfielder could make a move if Southampton suffer relegation. The Gunners are keen on a new midfielder, with Declan Rice their priority target.
Lavia is being considered for his talents, and Arsenal’s recruitment team feel the Belgian ticks many boxes. Considering the £40 million buy-back clause, clubs can use it as leverage when negotiating with Southampton.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have been keen on the midfielder since last summer. They reportedly were open to signing him for £50 million even before he kicked a ball for Southampton following his transfer from Manchester City. Todd Boehly will prioritise a move for a midfielder partner to Enzo Fernandez.
Lavia has remained on the radar, and Chelsea have made their moves. The Blues were also keen on Rice but may feel their absence from next season’s Champions League could play a huge role in the chase. Arsenal may have the advantage for the West Ham midfielder, and Lavia could get ahead on their list.
The London giants are ready to ramp up their efforts to sign the midfielder in the summer. Manchester City could use their clauses to make a move, but then, the decision will remain with Lavia to make a choice. Meanwhile, Manchester United will also be ready to pounce.
