Arsenal 'progressing' in talks over Romeo Lavia transfer swoop as Declan Rice deal advances
Arsenal is actively looking to strengthen their midfield for the upcoming season, and one of their top targets is West Ham's captain, Declan Rice. However, recent reports suggest that while Arsenal is still interested in Rice, they have also made progress in negotiations to sign Southampton's promising talent, Romeo Lavia. Lavia's potential departure from St. Mary's Stadium comes after Southampton's relegation last season.
Lavia, a Belgian midfielder, joined Southampton from Manchester City last summer. The 19-year-old has garnered interest from several top clubs, including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool. Manchester City included a buy-back clause in Lavia's contract, which will become active next summer. Rival clubs are eager to take advantage of this situation and secure his services ahead of the next season.
In their pursuit of Rice, Arsenal has cooled their interest in Brighton's Moises Caicedo. It appears that Caicedo is now on the verge of completing a move to Chelsea, as Mauricio Pochettino aims to find a suitable partner for Enzo Fernandez. Arsenal's initial bid for Rice was rejected, with West Ham holding out for a fee closer to their £100 million asking price. Recent reports suggest that the Gunners are preparing a new offer worth approximately £100 million, demonstrating their determination to acquire Rice's services.
Miguel Delaney reports that Arsenal aims to form a midfield partnership consisting of Rice and Lavia for the upcoming season. The Gunners are expected to submit another bid for Rice in the coming days, indicating that progress is being made in their pursuit of the West Ham captain. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, highlighted the need to enhance the physicality of his side after last season's run-in, where they sometimes found themselves outmatched. Thus, Arsenal is actively seeking to bolster their midfield with players who possess strength and power.
While discussions with Lavia are not as advanced as those with Rice, Arsenal is viewed as the most likely destination for the young Belgian midfielder. Southampton may demand a fee in the region of £40 million for Lavia, considering the interest he has generated and their need to prepare for a wave of bids for the talented youngster.
In addition to their pursuit of Rice and Lavia, Arsenal is also looking to sign a few more midfielders this summer. The imminent departure of Granit Xhaka to Bayer Leverkusen, for a reported fee of £13 million, is contingent upon Arsenal securing a suitable replacement. Furthermore, there is a possibility that Albert Sambi Lokonga and Thomas Partey could leave the club ahead of the new season, which further reinforces Arsenal's need to reinforce their midfield options
blogpay
Total Comments: 0