It is now essential that Arsenal buy at least one midfielder this summer in addition to acquiring Declan Rice from West Ham.
Granit Xhaka’s anticipated departure had already made it clear that the Gunners needed to prevail in the fight for Rice, but with Thomas Partey’s potential departure, another reinforcement to the engine room is now necessary. There is a “concrete chance” that Partey would depart north London before the 2023–24 season begins, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
Mikel Arteta would have very few alternatives in the middle of the pitch if both Xhaka and Partey left, but he and Edu might have identified the ideal replacement. Romeo Lavia of Southampton was widely expected to join Chelsea, but Arsenal currently has a great relationship with his camp and a strong interest in signing the Belgian international.
There has already been much discussion regarding Lavia’s benefits to Chelsea, particularly how director Joe Shields, a former Southampton player, was instrumental in bringing him to St. Mary’s from Manchester City. But the Gunners might possess a secret weapon of their own that could force Lavia to switch to Arsenal.
Emeka Obasi, the agent for Lavia, is said to have an excellent working connection with the club thanks to his assistance in securing a contract extension for one of his other clients, Bukayo Saka, at the Emirates Stadium, according to RMC Sport‘s Sacha Tavolieri. But the article also mentions that Chelsea spoke with Lavia’s father to talk about a prospective transfer.
Although Manchester United has expressed interest in Lavia, they are now concentrating on other issues. The buyback clause put into his contract with the Saints only becomes operative in 2024, ruling out an instant return to Man City.
Football.london claimed earlier this month that Chelsea had begun negotiations with Southampton to transfer Lavia, but their priorities have since changed. The Blues and Mauricio Pochettino now appear to be prioritizing Moises Caicedo of Brighton, and their second offer is anticipated to be sent next week.
Similar to Chelsea, Arsenal is presently concentrating on Rice, another midfield target, which leaves Lavia’s candidature up for grabs. The Daily Mail reports that Lavia from Southampton will cost interested parties between £40 million and £50 million this summer.