Arsenal are in advanced talks over Manchester City academy graduate Romeo Lavia.
While the Premier League runners up continue in their pursuit of Declan Rice, they look to add more to their squad.
Both Partey and Xhaka are reportedly leaving Arsenal, so they will undoubtedly need to strengthen.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano they hope to add both Rice and Lavia.
Should Arsenal take Lavia from Southampton this summer, it would prevent Manchester City activating their buy-back clause.
In his CaughtOffside column Romano states:
“Arsenal are also advancing on signing Romeo Lavia from Southampton. Manchester United and Chelsea are also still interested. Liverpool are informed on conditions of the deal but at the moment there is nothing else advanced with these teams. For sure Southampton want at least £45/50m fee to let Lavia go.”
He further refers to Manchester City’s £40million buy-back clause. However if he joins Arsenal this summer the clause is no longer valid. Though they do have a sell-on clause to receive a fee for player transaction.
Romano reports that Manchester City are expected to enter the race for Rice.
Arsenal will bid again for Declan Rice as plans remain clear: he’s top target and the club wants to get it done. 🚨⚪️🔴 #AFC
Timing of new bid not clear yet but it’s guaranteed that Arsenal won’t stop on this one.
No plan to bid for Roméo Lavia until they get Rice deal sealed. pic.twitter.com/Nu4LkSJ0Os
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 20, 2023
