In a recent report, The Telegraph revealed that Newcastle United are eyeing a move for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia. It has been mentioned that the Magpies are keen on recruiting the Belgian sensation during this summer transfer period.
Lavia’s Tough Campaign At The St. Mary’s Stadium
Lavia managed to prove his worth at times at the heart of Southampton’s midfield this season but failed to help them survive the drop from the Premier League. The Brussels-born talent has scored one goal and grabbed one assist in 35 matches for the Saints during this campaign across all competitions.
The 19-year-old has anchored the midfield with conviction by averaging 2.1 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 0.8 clearances per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He has also been careful when distributing possession from midfield after completing 86.4% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract with the Saints will expire in the summer of 2027. However, Southampton’s relegation could open the door for Newcastle to sign him in the upcoming transfer window.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Snap Lavia Up?
Lavia is a solid tackler of the ball and can read the danger quickly to earn the ball back for his side at the centre of the park. He doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when needed. Lavia is a tidy passer of the ball as well but needs to find a way to influence the game more often in the final third.
The Belgian sensation is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also function as a centre-back if told to do so.
Lavia has what it takes to bring more bite and steel to Newcastle boss Eddie Howe‘s midfield department. He has got enough experience in the Premier League and could prove himself to be a key asset for the Tyneside club in the coming seasons.
At 19, Lavia has the potential to become a future star in English football as long as he continues to improve his all-around game each year. Therefore, the Magpies would be wise to snap the Southampton talent up during this summer transfer window as he will undeniably increase competition for places within their squad.
