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While Arsenal have been working hard on trying to sign Declan Rice from West Ham United, it appears the Gunners are actually close to completing a deal for another midfielder.

That’s according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, who takes to Twitter to reveal the latest when it comes to the Londoners’ pursuit of Southampton’s Roméo Lavia.

The Belgian has been linked with a move away from St Mary’s following the Saints’ relegation to the Championship, and Arsenal have come in late with their interest.

However, Edu Gaspar has been moving quickly for the 19-year-old Southampton man, as Tavolieri states the Gunners are now ‘close to agreeing personal terms’ with the midfielder.

In fact, Arsenal now ‘run the race’ due to Emeka Obasi’s relationship with the bosses at the Emirates club.

The idea is to get ahead of Chelsea, who are also keen Lavia, and the belief is that an offer from Mikel Arteta’s side will be ‘submitted soon’ to convince Southampton to sell their player quickly.

The midfielder made 29 appearances in the Premier League last season, scoring the one goal.