Southampton's Romeo Lavia is thought to be one of Liverpool's targets this summer as they look set to continue investment in midfield.
The teenage star joined the Saints last summer in a permanent deal from City, with his impact impressive on the South Coast. He was a consistent starter throughout the season, making 29 appearances in the Premier League, albeit being unable to prevent the club being relegated to the Championship.
He joined as an 18-year-old, making a remarkable impact having been allowed to leave by Man City for an initial fee of £10.5m. City are believed to hold a buy-back clause to re-sign the talented teenager, with a £40m clause believed to be in place, however, it is Liverpool who are thought to be very much in the race as they prepare an offer.
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Arsenal are also thought to hold an interest in the star, with his ability to play a deeper role in midfield an asset which is thought to be high on both Mikel Arteta and Jurgen Klopp's wish list. The Belgian made his debut for the national team earlier this year and is set to become a key player for years to come.
One of Belgium's current leading stars is Kevin de Bruyne, who has previously lauded the Brussels-born player's abilities following his signing for Man City as a 16-year-old in 2020.
Speaking to Play Sports (via Hampshire Live), De Bruyne said: "He [Lavia] is very good. He's been training with us since the end of last year. If he continues his development, I think he'll be a top player."
City look unlikely to be preparing a move to reunite the pair, but De Bruyne's words paint a picture of a player who is one of the world's most highly rated teenagers.
City's impressive squad depth makes it hard for such players to break into the first team, meaning that many are sold on for profit rather than spending their early careers hoping for an unlikely first team call-up. Despite his departure, Pep Guardiola took the time to praise Lavia, stating that he has an 'incredible' opinion of the player.
“I am really impressed with what Romeo has done and is doing,” Guardiola said when asked about the Belgian's progress. “We had, and we have, an incredible opinion about him. We thought to keep him, but maybe he would not (get) enough minutes like he has in Southampton.
