Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia is set to leave the South Coast should his club be relegated from the Premier League.
Lavia, 19, joined from Manchester City last summer having made just two senior appearances for the English champions but could soon return to the city in red, with Manchester United keeping tabs on the youngster.
Reports from the Daily Mail suggest that Erik ten Hag’s side are just one of several top-flight giants who would look to pounce for the Belgian if Ruben Selles cannot keep the Saints afloat.
Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City themselves are also monitoring his progress closely and there could be a bidding war for the anchorman if he continues on his upward trajectory.
Southampton shelled out an initial £10.5million for the midfield ace last July and the uncapped starlet has come into his own as a regular starter at St Mary’s this term.
Lavia has made 18 appearances in the Premier League during the 2022-23 campaign and has helped keep his side within touching distance of safety by commanding the engine room and protecting his defence.
With a contract that runs until 2027, any deal would provide Southampton with a healthy cash boost for a rebuild that could be required if they cannot escape the dreaded drop
