According to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Seth, Liverpool’s pursuit of Southampton’s young talent Romeo Lavia has hit another obstacle as the Saints rejected the Reds’ third bid of £45 million for the Belgian prodigy.
With the departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, the Reds are in need of a new midfielder, and Jurgen Klopp has identified the 19-year-old as a top candidate to fill the vacancy.
Liverpool spent £35 million to acquire Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton & Hove Albion. However, signing Lavia from Southampton will require a much higher sum, as the Saints are standing firm despite their relegation from the Premier League.
Lavia’s contract runs until 2027, giving the club leverage in any potential transfer negotiations. Southampton have set a hefty £50 million price tag on the defensive midfielder, expecting significant interest in the young talent, with Chelsea also reportedly involved in the race.
Southampton have rejected Liverpool’s THIRD bid for midfielder Romeo Lavia. Bid understood to be in the region of £45m. Talks ongoing – with Southampton thought to be standing firm on their £50m valuation. #LFC #SaintsFC
— Dharmesh Sheth (@skysports_sheth) August 7, 2023
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo has been hindered by the Seagulls’ high asking price for the Ecuadorian midfielder, making Lavia an attractive alternative target for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
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Despite facing competition from Chelsea, Pochettino is determined to secure a deal for Brighton’s Moises Caicedo.
The Blues are considering the possibility of hijacking Liverpool’s pursuit of Lavia after the Reds’ third bid was turned down, which has given them an advantage.
Nevertheless, discussions between Liverpool and Southampton are ongoing, and Klopp remains hopeful of completing the transfer.
Lavia’s absence from Southampton’s squad in their recent Championship match has added to the speculation surrounding his potential departure.
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With intense rumors linking both Lavia and James Ward-Prowse to several Premier League clubs, it is challenging for Southampton to retain both standout performers this summer.
However, selling Lavia could potentially allow them to keep hold of their captain, Ward-Prowse.
