‘Pay attention’ - Newcastle United midfield target has already responded to transfer links

Reported Newcastle United transfer target Romeo Lavia has already responded to transfer talk.

The Magpies are on the lookout for new signings after securing a top four finish and a return to the Champions League. Eddie Howe’s men are going to need more quality and depth of they are going to compete for another top four finish while also putting together a run in Europe.

Fortunately, Newcastle have the resources to pull off a number of signings this summer, and The Telegraph believe five targets have already been identified.

One of those reported targets is Southampton star Lavia, who was one of the standout players in a poor Saints side last season. Southampton finished bottom and were relegated to the Championship with time to spare. It’s likely their most talented players will now be picked off by clubs from top divisions, be that the Premier League or elsewhere.

Lavia is of particular interest given he is still only 19 years of age, already racking up 29 Premier League appearances after his move from Manchester City last summer. The Belgian under-21s international is one of the brightest young players at St Mary’s Stadium, and Newcastle are said to be interested in snapping him up, needing more depth in defensive midfield ahead of next season.

Interestingly, Lavia has already spoke about transfer links back in March, telling Sky Sports: “I don’t read it because I just don’t think about it. I just enjoy my football and focus on what we have to do as a club. Whatever is outside, it is not what I can control, so I don’t pay attention to that. Football, with how it goes, it goes so fast.

“One moment you can be in the headlines and the next, you’re not. So the only thing to do is just be neutral, don’t think about it and get your head down and work.”