Man Utd lose transfer edge for 'wonderful' player after Graham Potter sacking

Manchester United have reportedly lost the edge in the race to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, following Chelsea's sacking of Graham Potter.

Potter was relieved of his duties on Sunday after less than seven months in charge of the Chelsea.

The 47-year-old was beaten 2-0 by Unai Emery's Aston Villa on Saturday, which proved to be his last match at Stamford Bridge.

However, Potter's sacking may have a knock-on effect on Erik ten Hag's transfer plans, with the Manchester United boss keen to strengthen his squad this summer.

One of the names linked with a move to Old Trafford is Lavia. Although Potter's departure has put a serious dent in their pursuit of the 19-year-old.

Man Utd lose transfer edge

Lavia has been a revelation at St Mary's following his £14 million move from Manchester City in the summer.

His form has caught the eye of Premier League giants United and Chelsea, who are leading the race to sign the youngster, according to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri.

However, if Lavia had a choice between between working under Ten Hag at Old Trafford or playing for Potter, journalist Dean Jones reckons Lavia would choose the Dutchman every day.

Speaking to Give Me Sport, Jones said: "I'm sure he'd rather play under Ten Hag than under Graham Potter. The way Ten Hag, this season, has been able to improve individuals on the whole has been really impressive."

In the wake of Potter's dismissal, the Red Devils boss no longer has the edge over the Blues, with Todd Boehly expected to appoint a new manager to help lead Chelsea to Champions League glory.

Ten Hag is said to be keen to strengthen his midfield, with the likes of Scott McTominay rumoured with a move away this summer.

While former Saints manager Nathan Jones waxed lyrical about Lavia, labelling him a 'wonderful talent' after just his first game in charge.

"To come and play how he did at Anfield with that freedom, shows he's a wonderful talent," Jones said after his side's 3-1 defeat to Liverpool in December.

“In possession he is wonderful but out of possession we need to work with him and he needs to get better. Once he does that, he'll be some talent,” he added.