Man Utd identify Lavia as ‘next Casemiro’ as they face transfer fight

Ten Hag previews Man Utd's Premier League match against Aston Villa

Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on the progress of Southampton star Romeo Lavia as they prepare for a shake-up in their ranks in the centre of the park this summer. Several midfielders have been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, though the overhaul could become more dramatic if Casemiro is sold.

With Marcel Sabitzer’s loan expiring at the end of the season and Scott McTominay being heavily linked with a move to Newcastle, United were expected to be in the market for midfield reinforcements this summer – with high-quality depth in that department deemed a necessity by Erik ten Hag.

However, those plans may need to be altered if Bayern Munich are successful in their pursuit of Casemiro. According to Kicker, Thomas Tuchel is a major admirer of the Brazilian playmaker and is desperate to add natural leaders to his ranks this summer as part of a major rebuild.

The Allianz Arena outfit are aware that signing the ex-Real Madrid star will come at a significant cost, though that has not deterred their interest and they are hopeful of entering talks with United as a result. If a deal is reached, Ten Hag will need to acquire a top-quality midfielder to fill the void in his side.

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Lavia could be a candidate to step up, with The Independent reporting that the 19-year-old has caught the eye of United. He is seen as a ‘potential long-term successor’ for Casemiro, though those plans could be accelerated if the No 18 departs sooner than anticipated.

Chelsea are also fond admirers of Lavia and reports have speculated that they are plotting to reignite their interest in the playmaker, having seen a bid for his services rejected last summer. The Blues are desperate to invest in youth and if Mauricio Pochettino approves of the pursuit then it would be no surprise if a significant bid is tabled.

Manchester City, who sold their academy product to Southampton and have a £40million buyback clause which becomes active in 2024, are also monitoring his progress. Speaking last month about Lavia, City boss Pep Guardiola said: “I am really impressed with what Romeo has done and is doing. 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. (It’s a) Good experience to go to the Premier League and play at this early age. So important.”

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