Liverpool lost Jordan Henderson and Fabinho through an offer backed by Saudi Arabia’s ample financial resources.
In a different turn of events than originally planned, the club is moving in earnest to acquire a defensive midfielder and has narrowed its sights on Romeo Lavia, a 19-year-old midfielder who plays for Southampton.
Liverpool, who have had two previous offers rejected, have tabled a third offer. This time, they raised the price to around £46 million in an attempt to conclude negotiations, but Southampton, demanding £50 million, rejected the offer, according to The Athletic.
The Belgian midfielder, who moved to Southampton from Manchester City last summer, has become a staple in the bottom half of the midfield. He made 34 appearances throughout the season and was on the pitch in 29 games in the Premier League, a performance not unlike that of a teenager.
In the opening game of the Championship this season, he was on the bench but did not play, further fueling transfer rumors.
The player wants to play at Anfield, and only an agreement between the clubs remains, but will Liverpool be able to welcome the young gem into the team?