Liverpool’s search for Romeo Lavia is progressing rapidly, with a second offer expected shortly as there is a ‘high chance’ the signing will go through.
The Reds had an initial offer of £37m for the midfielder which was rejected by Southampton, who valued Lavia at £50m earlier this summer.
Lavia has been on the club’s shopping list for most of the summer as Jurgen Klopp undertakes a major midfield overhaul following the move to and from Anfield.
Latest news indicates that Liverpool are set to offer Saints an improved proposition to secure the teenager’s signature, with the belief that the likelihood of a deal happening is now ‘increasing’.
Athletic’s David Ornstein reported Wednesday morning that “negotiations are still ongoing” and that there is a lot of optimism that the disparity between the two sides’ ratings can be resolved.
Reports from Southampton’s friendly against Bournemouth on Tuesday suggested Lavia looked visibly annoyed by the Reds’ approach and it looks like further progress has been made since then.
Ornstein has revealed that despite continued interest from Chelsea, personal terms “will not be an issue”, suggesting official confirmation could follow in the not too distant future once a transfer fee has been agreed.
It comes after what appears to be a few weeks of relative inactivity regarding this transfer, with few reports suggesting Liverpool have made any significant progress since filing their initial interest.
The impending departure of Jordan Henderson and continued uncertainty over Fabinho’s future have made Klopp’s midfield transformation a bit more difficult as he seeks to prepare his squad for the new season.
At just 19, Lavia could start with some responsibility as the Reds have already lost a number of senior midfielders this summer and no further defensive midfield signings are forthcoming as things stand.
Liverpool travel to Singapore for friendlies with Leicester and Bayern Munich on Thursday as preparations for next season intensify. The manager will be interested in closing as many deals as possible before their team travels.
