Arsenal are considering making a move for Romeo Lavia as an alternative to the ‘costly’ Moises Caicedo this summer.
According to Daily Mail, Romeo Lavia has emerged on Arsenal’s list of potential new midfielders. The Gunners could ponder making a swoop for the 19-year-old Southampton star after deeming a potential pursuit of Moises Caicedo ‘costly’. The youngster is also a target for Chelsea and Liverpool.
There is an interesting battle for midfielders brewing in the English market. Arsenal are at the forefront of this saga and are looking to come out on top by signing their preferred stars ahead of their rivals. Romeo Lavia is the latest star to feature on the Gunners shortlist, but there is plenty of competition.
The 19-year-old was a shining light for Southampton in an otherwise underwhelming season for the Saints. With their ultimate demotion to the Championship, they will be forced to sell some of their prized assets, including Lavia.
Lavia’s case is a bit complex, considering Manchester City have a buyback clause worth £40 million in his contract, which will activate in 2024. Clubs feel they can sign him for a similar fee or slightly higher in this window, with the 19-year-old eager to continue playing at the top level.
Liverpool and Chelsea are keen on the midfielder, too, with both teams, along with Arsenal, eager to strengthen their central positions. Lavia’s mature performances at a very young age have always made him a player of interest. But at this moment, Arsenal may have the upper hand.
The Gunners could move for the midfielder after they complete the signings of Declan Rice and Kai Havertz. They are already planning a second bid worth £100 million for the West Ham United captain while preparing a new offer for the Chelsea star.
The Gunners initially may have wanted Moises Caicedo but have bowed out of the race owing to his huge asking price. Mikel Arteta is adamant about signing two new midfielders in the close season and has now pivoted to Lavia as an option instead of the Ecuadorian.
Chelsea are now the current favourites to land Caicedo, with the London club readying a bid for the Ecuadorian. They also are interested in Lavia, and the 19-year-old could become a fallback option if they cannot agree on a move with Brighton.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are also monitoring Lavia’s situation closely. They want to bring in at least one more midfielder after signing Alexis Mac Allister. But the 19-year-old’s price point might bother the Merseysiders, thus leaving Arsenal with the budget and the favourites tag for the Belgian in this window.
