Agbonlahor can’t believe Romeo Lavia latest – ‘if Arsenal are serious about this…’
Gabby Agbonlahor has claimed Arsenal should look past Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia and “go all out” to seal a double deal for Brighton’s Moises Caicedo and West Ham’s Declan Rice.
The ex-Aston Villa forward, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the Gunners must move for “top, top players” if they are serious about fighting for Premier League and Champions League glory next season.
According to the Daily Mail (3 May), Lavia, 19, is one of several midfielders on Arsenal’s radar ahead of the summer window – alongside the likes of Rice and Caicedo.
The Gunners have been one of this season’s surprise packages, leading the title race for much of the campaign before faltering and conceding the title to Manchester City with three games remaining.
Lavia has been a shining light in a season full of disappointment for Southampton, who were relegated to the Championship earlier this month.
He joined from Man City last summer (2022) for a reported £12million and quickly became a pivotal part of the struggling side’s midfield, making 34 appearances and scoring once.
Despite his stellar form, Agbonlahor believes that adding more established players such as Rice or Caicedo is what Arteta needs to build upon their impressive season.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider: “I think Lavia is a very good player.
“But if Arsenal are really serious about a title push and a Champions League run next season, they can’t take shortcuts.
“They will want to have a good go at it, and for that you need top, top players.
“Lavia looks a good player, but I’d go all out to get Caicedo and Rice.
“They’ve got to make these marquee signings because it’s an area they really need to improve in.”
In other news, pundit believes door is open for Rangers to sign Southampton full-back