Arsenal are interested in signing Southampton central midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to the Daily Mail.
The Gunners have one of the youngest squads in the Premier League, with 21-year-old trio Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and William Saliba featuring in all 25 of their league matches this season. However, one area that they are slightly older in is midfield.
Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka and Jorginho are 29, 30 and 31 respectively whilst the currently injured Mohamed Elneny also turns 31 this summer. Considering technical director Edu's previous comments on bringing in youth, it makes sense for the north Londoners to target a young midfield talent at the end of the current campaign.
READ MORE: Arsenal boosted as Erling Haaland agent confirms transfer plan after 'wrong club' claim
West Ham United captain Declan Rice, 24, remains the club's priority ahead of the summer transfer window, football.london understands, although recent reports have suggested that Arsenal are keen to bring in two players in the middle of the park. Now, the Mail claim that the Gunners have shown interest in teenage sensation Lavia, who is also said to have attracted attention from the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United.
It remains to be seen just how strong Arsenal's interest is in the former Manchester City academy graduate but if Theo Walcott is to be believed, he would be the perfect signing for Mikel Arteta and co. "I’m a big fan," Walcott told talkSPORT in January when asked about the 19-year-old.
"He’s obviously had a few injuries but he’s coming back. He’s 18/19 when he’s off the field but when he’s on the field, it’s mad. It’s like he’s played over 200 games in the Premier League – that’s how much I rate him.
"It’s very interesting to see, watching him from the stands. Obviously, it looks so easy from the stands, it always does. You probably know that watching us [and thinking]: ‘He should make that run or make that pass’. It’s not as straightforward as that.
"But when I watch him, I’m like: ‘You look way above your age right now’. It’s a good sign and, hopefully, we can keep him fit. They are all learning. But, in particular, he’s learning quicker than normal, I would say."
READ NEXT:
Leandro Trossard shows Arsenal misconception of Eddie Nketiah after Gabriel Martinelli success
What Odegaard did to make Zinchenko applaud as Arteta reveals key to Martinelli form
Martin Odegaard drops hint on Gabriel Jesus injury return during Arsenal's victory over Everton
Arsenal next five Premier League fixtures compared to Man City and Man Utd after Everton victory
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
