Manchester United report: Man City academy product in talks over sensational £40m+ move

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Manchester United are eyeing a deal that could enrage Man City, as Erik ten Hag looks to shape his squad this summer

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag applauds at full-time
(Image credit: Getty)

Manchester United are targeting a Man City academy product, in an audacious attempt to improve their squad.

The Red Devils are enjoying a strong debut season under Erik ten Hag. United won the Carabao Cup this term and are still flying high in the Europa League and FA Cup, while sitting in the top four of the Premier League.

But there have been cracks in the side. Manchester United have looked a different team without midfielder Casemiro – and it looks like Ten Hag wants to address that. 

Casemiro looks dejected during Manchester United's 0-0 draw against Southampton, in which he was sent off.

Casemiro has been Manchester United's most important player – but this has only illustrated the need for support around him (Image credit: Getty Images)

Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri has claimed that Southampton star Romeo Lavia is on the radar for the 20-time English champions – and it will agitate their closest rivals to hear. 

The midfielder's entourage have reportedly met representatives of United – which is fascinating, given his relationship with Manchester City. Lavia came through the ranks at Eastlands before moving to the south coast last summer. 

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City actually retain a buy-back on the young Belgian but it doesn't come into effect, reportedly, until 2024. If Pep Guardiola wants to re-sign the star, it'll cost the Citizens £40 million.

Chelsea attempted a £50m last-ditch Deadline Day move for Lavia in the summer, according to Sky Sports. It could well be a similar fee that sees the star prised from St. Mary's.

Romeo Lavia of Southampton scores their team's first goal during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Chelsea FC at Friends Provident St. Mary's Stadium on August 30, 2022 in Southampton, England.

Romeo Lavia is on the radar for a number of clubs (Image credit: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Still just a teenager, Lavia is wanted by a number of top sides and could leave Southampton this summer if the Saints are relegated. 

The 19-year-old is valued at around €25m by Transfermarkt. 

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Manchester United are looking to capitalise on their resurgence in the transfer market, with big new signings. Victor Osimhen is one option for €100m, Declan Rice is on the radar and Jeremie Frimpong could arrive as a new right-back. More outlandish theories include signing Kylian Mbappe and selling Marcus Rashford to Arsenal. 

The Glazer ownership are not guaranteed to sell up – despite bids from lifelong fan, Sir Jim Radcliffe and Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has underlined the importance of positive mentality at Old Trafford. 

Mark White
Mark White
Content Editor

Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.