In his exclusive column for CaughtOffside, Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the transfer situation involving Southampton's rising star Romeo Lavia.
The 19-year-old midfielder has attracted considerable attention, with Liverpool and Arsenal emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.
While Manchester United and Chelsea have also shown interest in the Premier League starlet recently, it appears that the Reds and the Gunners are now the clubs displaying the strongest desire to secure his services this summer.
Romano reveals that Jurgen Klopp's side had always planned to make three signings in the midfield position following the departure of several players at the end of the previous season.
The North Londoners, on the other hand, are also in the race to sign the player and are expected to determine the intensity of their pursuit once they finalize the signing of Declan Rice.
Additionally, decisions regarding the futures of Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey are also anticipated to be made shortly.
“It could be a crucial few weeks ahead for Romeo Lavia. Chelsea and Manchester United are still keeping an eye on his situation, but the reality is that Chelsea are focusing on Moises Caicedo.
“Arsenal also have an interest in Lavia but are 100% focused on closing the deal for Declan Rice at the moment, and then Jurrien Timber. Still, Lavia could be an option for them if Thomas Partey leaves the club.
“As previously mentioned, Partey has interest from Juventus and from Saudi clubs, but as of now this is still nothing advanced. There has also been a verbal agreement for Granit Xhaka to join Bayer Leverkusen, which has been in place since May. It’s very advanced, but now it’s up to Arsenal, they will look to resolve final details of the Rice story and then decide on Xhaka and Partey."
Join us on Telegram!/ Follow us on Twitter!