EXCLUSIVE: Southampton eye Aston Villa teenager as Lavia replacement
Jacque Talbot
- Updated: 31 Jul 2023 12:36 BST
- 5 min read
Exclusive
Southampton are looking at Lamare Bogarde ahead of the new season, with the side believing that the 19-year-old Aston Villa midfielder could offer a respite for if the side were to sell Romeo Lavia.
Liverpool are thought to be making a second bid for Lavia, while personal terms won’t be an issue. Southampton are looking for a replacement for the upcoming season and see Bogarde as someone who could potentially take over from Lavia ahead of their Championship season.
We are told that, at this stage, Aston Villa are not willing to let Bogarde leave on a permanent deal, something the Saints have asked. The club would rather let the teenager leave on loan and compete at a high level before coming back into the fold in the future down the line.
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An exciting prospect, Bogarde has represented the Netherlands at youth level, while he has also clocked up a substantial amount of game-time in the Premier League 2 division. Last campaign, Bogarde excelled at Bristol Rovers, who he joined on loan in January.
Barton on Bogarde
Manager Joey Barton spoke highly of the Dutchman back in February, after his side’s 0-0 draw with Ipswich Town.
The former Manchester City midfielder told reporters: “A first league game against the top-end of the division and he didn’t look out of place.
“We were just concerned about his fitness levels but he actually looked like he was relatively strong there, finishing.
“So really pleased with Lamare. I think he’s going to have a big future and it’s nice to have the opportunity to get him in our team and see what he can do. He’s got enormous potential.”
