Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia has caught the attention of top Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea. The 19-year-old Belgian joined Southampton during the summer transfer window, along with several other City youngsters, and has impressed despite his team’s struggles. With Southampton currently at the bottom of the Premier League table, they may face a fight to hold onto Lavia if they are relegated. Manchester City reportedly have an option to buy Lavia back for £40 million, but this clause will only become active in 2024.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Lavia’s development and suggested that the club is keeping a close eye on their former youngster. Guardiola said, “We had, and we have, an incredible opinion about him. We thought to keep him, but maybe he would not (get) enough minutes like he has in Southampton.”
Despite the interest from top clubs, Lavia recently dismissed talk over his future, saying, “I just enjoy my football and focus on what we have to do as a club. Whatever is outside, it is not what I can control, so I don’t pay attention to that.”
Guardiola also provided an update on the fitness of Erling Haaland and warned of the challenges ahead in the title race. He also welcomed Frank Lampard’s return to Chelsea and said he has a “new opportunity” at the club.
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