Romeo Lavia has enjoyed a stellar breakout season playing in the heart of Southampton's midfield. Understandably, his high quality performances in the middle of the park have attracted the attention of several European clubs, including Champions League quarter-finalists Chelsea and Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Also retaining an interest is the 19-year-old's former club Manchester City, who sold him to the south coast for around £11million last summer. It always seemed like Pep Guardiola's side held an advantage to re-sign the promising Belgian after the deal to take him to St Mary's included a buyback option should City wish to bring him back.
However, it has since emerged this particular clause - one of a number embedded into the contract - will not be valid this summer, as it only comes into effect in 2024. Once that agreement becomes active, the north-west outfit will have the ability to activate Lavia's release clause which is understood to be set in the region of £40million.
