Southampton star subject of ‘intense’ interest from Premier League giants

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MARCH 15: Romeo Lavia and Romain Perraud of Southampton after their side's 2-0 defeat during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Brentford FC at Friends Provident St. Mary's Stadium on March 15, 2023 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MARCH 15: Romeo Lavia and Romain Perraud of Southampton after their side's 2-0 defeat during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Brentford FC at Friends Provident St. Mary's Stadium on March 15, 2023 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)

Chelsea are keen to step up their interest in Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri.

Lavia has established himself as a key player for the Saints since joining them from Manchester City last summer. He was bought for an initial sum of £10m ahead of the 2022-23 season.

The 19-year-old has made 24 appearances across all competitions for Southampton so far. He contributed towards two goals in those games, helping the team register seven wins.

Lavia’s performances for the Hampshire-based club have seen him attract interest from other clubs already. He was notably the subject of a bid from Chelsea last summer, just weeks after moving to St. Mary’s.

It appears the Blues remain interested in acquiring the midfielder’s services. The Southampton star is the subject of ‘intense’ interest from the London giants, according to the aforementioned source.

Chelsea are said to have met Lavia’s representatives in Belgium this week. They now intend to accelerate their interest and snap him up from the Saints.

Only recently, Tavolieri claimed that Ruben Selles’ side will struggle to retain the teenager beyond this season. It now remains to be seen if the St. Mary’s outfit can convince the player to stay at the club for at least another season.

Southampton star Romeo Lavia named in Belgium squad

According to Tavolieri, Romeo Lavia has been named in Belgium’s squad for their upcoming games. Domenico Tedesco, who took charge of the team last month, has picked the youngster in his roster.

The Red Devils are scheduled to face Sweden and Germany on the 24th and 28th of March respectively. Lavia will hope to make his senior debut for the national team during the period.

Meanwhile, he will be focused on helping Southampton at least a point when they face Tottenham Hotspur away from home on Saturday, 18th March. The Saints notably remain at the bottom of the Premier League table.