Chelsea looking to hijack Liverpool’s Romeo Lavia deal

Liverpool are pursuing a deal for Southampton star Romeo Lavia as they aim to bolster their ranks ahead of the 2023-24 season. 

The Reds have already had a £37 million bid turned down for the 19-year-old but are said to be preparing to launch an improved offer. 

The Saints reportedly want around £50m for the Belgian who arrived at St Mary’s Stadium last summer from Manchester City. 

Lavia earned rave reviews for his performances last season, making 29 Premier League appearances and scoring a goal. 

But he failed to keep his side in the English top-flight, with the Hampshire outfit finishing bottom of the league standings. 

The young midfielder is expected to leave St Mary’s this summer with several top English clubs keen on him. 

According to Ben Jacobs, Chelsea are planning to hijack Liverpool’s move for the 19-year-old. 

The Blues, who attempted to sign the player for £50m a year ago, are reportedly prepared to table a higher offer than Jurgen Klopp’s side. 

But the good news for the Merseyside fans is that Lavia prefers a move to Anfield and so they are in pole position to sign him at this stage. 

The Reds have had a busy summer transfer window so far, with Klopp leading a big squad overhaul. 

They have released Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. 

Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson has recently completed his transfer to Al-Ettifaq and Fabinho looks close to joining Saudi Arabia too.