ARSENAL could take their summer spending to upwards of £200million with a move for another Premier League midfielder.
Last season’s Premier League runners-up are on the verge of signing West Ham skipper Declan Rice for a club-record fee of £105million.
Rice’s imminent Emirates arrival will take the Gunners’ summer spending to a staggering £170m, which was kicked off with the £65m signing of Kai Havertz.
But they’re reportedly set to take their splurge well over the £200m mark with a move for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia.
That’s according to The Times, who claim the North Londoners are weighing up a bid for the 19-year-old.
But the Gunners will have to delve deep into their pockets to sign the Belgium international – who caught the eye of several clubs last season.
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Southampton – despite being in desperate need of cash following their relegation to the Championship – are demanding a minimum of £50m for Lavia’s services.
Arsenal will reportedly face competition from Prem rivals Chelsea and Liverpool, the latter of whom are said to be preparing to table a bid in the region of £40m.
Gunners chief Arteta will be hoping the addition of Havertz and Rice will help Arsenal end their 20-year wait for Premier League glory.
Arsenal surrendered the league to Manchester City by squandering a NINE POINT lead during a disastrous three-week period in April.
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But Arteta is confident his troops can go one better next season, telling Marca: “That is our ambition.
“We know the difficulty, it is the best league in the world and next season is going to be the most difficult league in history.
“Why? Last year it already was. I’ve been here for 22 years and I’ve never seen a competitive level like that.
“So much quality, so much organization, so many resources, such good coaches.
“And now [Mauricio] Pochettino and [Andoni] Iraola have arrived.
“The level is that and to win the Premier you must be the best. That is why we have to strengthen.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
