Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, reports on Monday morning claim.
The Reds have been desperate to sign a sitting midfielder this summer after offloading the likes of Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and James Milner.
Lavia was their top target but their attentions turned to Moises Caicedo and it looked like a deal might be done when an offer of £110 million was accepted by Brighton and a medical was booked.
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However, Chelsea, who are also in for Lavia, outbid the Reds with an £115 million proposal that now looks set to secure the Ecuadorian's services.
The Guardian say that Liverpool have agreed a £60 million fee with Southampton for Lavia but they must now convince him to pick them over Chelsea.
Liverpool had three separate bids rejected for the former Manchester City man as Southampton hold out for the highest possible fee but Chelsea emerged in the race and want both Lavia and Caicedo in a new-look midfield for Mauricio Pochettino's side.
They tabled a £55 million bid for the Belgian midfielder on Friday but Liverpool went one better with their package.
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According to Ben Jacobs of CBS Sports, Lavia has always been open to signing for Liverpool and it will ultimately be his decision if Chelsea elect to match the most recent bid.
Lavia came to England in 2020, signing for City from Anderlecht. He made two appearances for the first-team in the 2021/22 campaign but left for Southampton in a £14 million deal last summer.
He played 29 times in the Premier League as Saints were relegated last term and wants to leave the club.
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Because of a sell-on clause inserted in his contract, City will take 20% of the fee Southampton receive.
The Blues also included a £40 million buy-back clause but it can only be activated in 2024 and will therefore be rendered obsolete should he move on.
Topics: Liverpool, Chelsea, Romeo Lavia, Manchester City
Josh Lawless