Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia is a “priority” target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, according to La Derniere Heure (via Sport Witness).

The Belgian publication report that Arteta wants to sign the 19-year-old if they can offload Thomas Partey before the end of the summer transfer window.

Lavia is said to be waiting to see where the chips fall in terms of which players will be bought by Saudi Arabian clubs. Partey is known to be one of those who could be set for a move to the Middle East.

However, Liverpool are also interested in Lavia, and if Fabinho and/or Jordan Henderson are sold to Saudi teams before Partey, the Reds could still have the advantage over their rivals in the race for the Saints player.

Chelsea have been suggested as potential suitors for Lavia too, although it is felt that the Blues may only make an offer if negotiations collapse with Brighton for Moises Caicedo.

La Derniere Heure do claim that there is still a chance that Arsenal will “overtake” the competition for Lavia, if a deal for Partey does develop quickly over the coming days, but things are currently out of the Gunners’ hands.

Arsenal need to raise money through player sales

With Southampton demanding a high price for Romeo Lavia, it means the Gunners will have to find the funds needed to secure his services.

After spending over £200m on Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice, the focus for now is very much on selling players.

In addition to Partey (who could fetch close to £40m), the likes of Cedric Soares, Nicolas Pepe and Rob Holding could be allowed to leave. It is also believed that striker Folarin Balogun will be sold if a team matches Arsenal’s £50m asking price. The likes of Inter Milan, Brighton, West Ham and Crystal Palace are all thought to be keen on recruiting the striker.

Lavia’s valuation is sky high

From the looks of things, Southampton will play hardball with clubs who make bids for Lavia. There has been speculation that teams may be able to snap him up for below £40m after the Saints were relegated to the Championship.

However, it has since been reported that will not settle for less than £50m. The main reason for that is down to the midfielder’s previous club, Manchester City, having a sell-on clause on the player. Partey’s departure is, therefore, important to make this deal happen.