Chelsea reportedly lead the race to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, a target for Arsenal and Manchester United.
According to a report by Football Insider, Chelsea are keen on signing Romeo Lavia in the summer. The Blues are leading the race for his signature amid interest from several big clubs across Europe. The 19-year-old has been doing wonders since joining the Saints and the interest in his services is understandable.
Lavia was a part of Anderlecht’s youth academy before Manchester City signed him back in the summer of 2020. While he did show signs of growth at City, the 19-year-old could not get into the first-team squad. As a result, he decided to move on.
The Belgian international joined Southampton ahead of the ongoing season. And, he has gone from strength to strength since moving to St. Mary’s. The 19-year-old has been called up to the Belgium squad for the Euro Qualifiers by new manager Domenico Tedesco on the back of his performances at the club.
Lavia has made 24 first-team appearances for Southampton and has two goal contributions to his name. The Belgian international has been rock solid in front of his defence and has even showcased his quality in attacking plays. He has been one of the standouts in the Southampton squad in the ongoing season.
The 19-year-old’s performances have caught the eyes of quite a few clubs. And they are likely to push for him in the summer. Meanwhile, Manchester City do have a £40 million buy-back clause and they are keen on having him back.
But, the clause does not activate until the summer of 2024. As a result, other parties, including Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United, have a chance to sign him in the upcoming window. However, Manchester City do have a 20 per cent sell-on clause for Lavia.
Chelsea are leading the race for the signatures of 19-year-old. The Blues have already spent a fortune acquiring young talented players. But, they believe there are a few areas that still require investment. Lavia’s profile suits Chelsea’s summer transfer plan.
People at the club believe that the 19-year-old will be a great addition to their ranks and as a result, he is a part of their list of midfield targets. If the Saints fail to survive in the Premier League, the Blues can surely manage to strike a deal for the Belgian international. However, they still might have to fight it out with Arsenal and Manchester United, who are also keen on having Lavia.
Arsenal will look to continue the youth revolution by bringing the teenage sensation to the Emirates. On the other hand, Manchester United want a reliable partner for Casemiro. But with Chelsea in the pole position, Arsenal and Manchester United have an uphill task.
