Pep Guardiola Praises Southampton’s Teenage Midfielder Romeo Lavia, Amidst Chelsea Interest

Manchester City head honcho Pep Guardiola has expressed his delight at the progress made by 19-year-old Southampton midfield prodigy Romeo Lavia. Reports suggest that Chelsea are interested in acquiring the services of the player.

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Southampton acquired Lavia last year from City, who had inserted a £40million buy-back clause in his contract, eligible in 2024.

His debut campaign with the Saints has been noteworthy, making 25 appearances across all competitions. Guardiola expressed pleasure that the young midfielder is thriving, despite being removed from City’s academy.

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“I am really impressed with what Romeo has done and is doing. We had and still have an incredible opinion about him,” said Guardiola ahead of City’s clash with Southampton. Lavia won the Premier League 2 with City’s development side before moving to the Saints.

Chelsea are said to be keen on securing the young Belgian, who has been in outstanding form. A potential move to Stamford Bridge would see Blues co-owner, Todd Boehly, make yet another signing on top of their near £600m spending spree since last summer.

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However, if Southampton is relegated from the Premier League this season, then they may have no option but to cash in on one of their star players. Chelsea attempted to sign him just weeks after he completed his move to Southampton.

At present, Chelsea is searching for their next permanent manager following the departure of Graham Potter. Frank Lampard has resumed as the interim boss until the end of the season.