“I find it hard to believe” – Southampton star tipped for summer exit by journalist after Manchester United draw
Southampton star Romeo Lavia has been tipped to secure a move away from St. Mary’s this summer by Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
Lavia impressed for the Saints once again against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday, 12th March. He helped them hold the Red Devils to a 0-0 draw.
It was not long ago that the midfielder starred for Southampton against Chelsea. He helped his team earn a shock 1-0 victory over the London giants last month and received praise from Alan Shearer
Reacting to Lavia’s display against the Red Devils, Tavolieri claimed the Hampshire outfit will struggle to retain the Belgian if they suffer relegation. The journalist believes interested clubs will jump at the opportunity to sign Lavia this summer.
"“I find it hard to believe that Romeo Lavia will stay at Southampton if they’re relegated,” Tavolieri wrote on Twitter.“In view of his performances against Chelsea and now at Manchester United, there is no doubt that the clubs that are already interested will position themselves for the future.”“We will follow this case closely this summer.”"
Southampton remain at the bottom of the Premier League table despite earning a point against Erik ten Hag’s side. However, they are just two points behind 16th-placed Leicester City.
The Saints have notably kept three clean sheets in four games since Ruben Selles replaced Nathan Jones. The Spaniard will hope to steer the club clear of the relegation zone in the coming weeks.
How has Lavia fared for Southampton?
Southampton signed Lavia from Manchester City for an initial sum of £10m last summer. The 19-year-old has since established himself as a key player for them, making 23 appearances across all competitions.
It is worth noting that Lavia was the subject of an offer from Chelsea just weeks after the Saints signed him. Meanwhile, the Cityzens have an option that allows them to re-sign the midfielder for £40m.
There could be more players in the mix to sign the teenager this summer, especially if his employers fail to keep their top-flight status.