Transfer Talk: Arsenal set for Lav story with Saints' Romeo

Arsenal are keen on bringing Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia to the Emirates this summer but face stiff competition from other Premier League clubs.

Lavia, 19, joined the Saints from Manchester City, who reportedly have a buy-back clause for Belgian, in 2022 and impressed on the South Coast, despite being relegated.

And according to The Independent, the Gunners are leading the race for the one-cap international but may have to fend off Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool, who are also in the market for reinforcements.

Despite Southampton's relegation, they are believed to be holding out for a fee in the region of £45million and will not be pressured to sell.

Lavia's contract is active until 2027, putting the power in the club's hands as they look to build a squad capable of earning promotion back to the top flight.

The former City Under-21s star made 29 league appearances for the Saints last term, scoring one goal and forming a solid partnership with James Ward-Prowse in midfield.

His defensive qualities are what made him stand out in a below-average side — Lavia made 60 tackles and 33 interceptions last season, only Ward-Prowse and Kyle Walker-Peters made more.

In other news

The Telegraph claim that Fulham will plot a move for Brazil midfielder Fred this summer.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano believes that Manchester City are close to agreeing terms with RB Leipzig wonderkid Josko Gvardiol.

The Athletic believe that Newcastle have submitted a bid in the region of £50m for AC Milan maestro Sandro Tonali.