Southampton are expected to announce the permanent signing of Manchester City academy graduate Romeo Lavia in a deal worth a potential £14 million, with the Premier League champions maintaining several clauses that could benefit them in the future.
Last week it emerged that the two clubs had agreed on a deal worth around £10 million for the holding midfielder – however, it became apparent in the days that followed that the sides had actually agreed on a £14 million deal.
On Wednesday morning, various sources, including Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News, confirmed that Pep Guardiola's side are set to bank an initial £10.5 million, with potential bonuses of £3.5 million for the 18-year-old.
Details surrounding clauses in the deal have also emerged, with the Blues reportedly having a sell-on clause valued at 20% and the opportunity to match any future bids for the Belgium youth international. It has been reported in some quarters that the buyback clause in the deal is worth around £40 million.
Lavia was signed from Anderlecht two years ago and went on to impress immensely within the Elite Development Squad and has featured in Guardiola's senior matchday squads on a number of occasions – making two senior appearances, both in cup competition.
Earlier in the window, Southampton signed Gavin Bazunu in a deal worth £12 million plus £3 million in bonuses; the two outgoing transfers to the Saints represent a significant windfall for the Blues, with a guaranteed sum of £22.5 million, potentially rising to £29 million.
Elsewhere, City have confirmed that Enzo Maresca has rejoined the club as part of Guardiola's backroom staff, with Rodolfo Borrell becoming the Catalan's number 2 in place of Juanma Lillo – who joined Al-Sadd Sports Club as head coach.
On his return to the club, Maresca said:
"I am very happy to be back at Manchester City, one of the biggest clubs in the world. I gained a lot from my season here coaching the EDS and saw just how talented the players and staff are at this club. I am very proud that Pep has asked me to return, this time as part of the first-team backroom staff, and I can’t wait to help him and the players in the seasons to come."
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain said:
"We are delighted to welcome Enzo back to Manchester City. We were sorry to see him leave last year after a successful season in charge of the EDS and did not want to pass up the opportunity to bring him back to the club. His experience in a number of leagues and relationship with many of our current staff and players will be an invaluable asset to Pep and his team."
Written by: @NA1907
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