Sources: Man City in pole position to re-sign Romeo Lavia after Kevin De Bruyne’s claim
Man City have the advantage in the race for Southampton star Romeo Lavia this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The Citizens sold the 19-year-old to the south coast club last summer (2022) and included a buy-back clause in the deal.
Lavia is wanted by a host of Premier League clubs, who could pounce to seal a deal if Southampton are relegated from the top flight this season.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano (6 July 2022), Man City can re-sign the Belgium Under-21 international for £40million.
It is believed that Pep Guardiola’s side could explore the possibility of bringing Lavia back to the Etihad Stadium if Ilkay Gundogan chooses to leave the club this summer.
Football Insider revealed on Friday (24 February) that Barcelona are “pushing hard” to sign Gundogan as his City contract runs down.
Speaking about speculation over his future (as per Football Daily, 3 March), Lavia has insisted he is not paying attention to potential interest and is focusing on his football at Southampton.
The midfielder turned out twice for City in the 2021-22 season in domestic cup competition.
Speaking about Lavia’s potential, Citizens midfield star Kevin de Bruyne insisted the youngster can become a “top player” in the future.
He has become a regular starter at Southampton since joining for a reported potential fee of £14million, making 21 appearances across all competitions after recovering from an early-season hamstring injury.
The Saints are in real danger of losing their Premier League status for the first time in 11 seasons.
Ruben Selles’ side are a point from safety with 13 league games remaining this term.
In other news, Football Insider updates as Chelsea agree deal for Man City senior man.