Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Chelsea will need to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia this summer in order to beat Manchester City to a deal.
He claimed in his Daily Briefing that the Blues and Arsenal are keen on a deal, however the league leaders have a buy-back clause that becomes active as early as next year.
When discussing potential reinforcements this summer, Lavia has frequently been mentioned as a potential option to bring in.
The club have been well-documented in their search of a midfielder to become the long-term partner to Enzo Fernandez, after he was brought in for a club record fee.
It has also been identified by potential next coach Mauricio Pochettino as an area that needs addressing, as he looks towards the squad he will have to manage next season.
Chelsea must sign Lavia this summer
It is looking likely that Lavia is set to be relegated this season despite his ‘ridiculous’ individual displays, which is only going to make convincing the Saints to let him go easier.
Romano has claimed that the race is open this summer, when the Blues will have to beat to hold off interest from City.
He said: “Arsenal and Chelsea are among the clubs following Romeo Lavia ahead of the summer.
“Manchester City also still really appreciate the player after they sold him to Southampton, but there is a buy-back clause option for City, only valid in 2024, meaning other clubs can try to attack the situation this summer. The race looks absolutely open for this summer.”
Lavia is one of a few names, particularly from the Premier League that are set to be on the move this summer.
Another is Declan Rice, who Chelsea have held a long interest in signing.
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