With Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, experienced players who can play at the bottom of midfield, leaving the team, Liverpool, in pursuit of a defensive midfielder, has been trying for some time to acquire Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia.
Three offers failed to reach an agreement between the clubs, all falling short of the £50 million demanded by Southampton. Liverpool hesitated to offer the asking price, and suddenly turned to Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo to reach an agreement with the team for the highest price in English history, but the player refused.
In the meantime, Chelsea had reached an agreement with Southampton for £55 million, and the situation was getting worse as the contract documents and medical checks were prepared in London.
While there was a possibility of a change to another target, Liverpool still seems to be keeping an eye on Lavia.
According to Ben Jacobs, sports journalist, Liverpool made an offer for a total of £60 million and an agreement was reached. The 19-year-old midfielder is said to be prioritizing playing at Anfield, but a second battle with Chelsea is likely to unfold.
“Liverpool have now had a £60m package for Romeo Lavia accepted by Southampton. As expected, things moving fast.”
“Lavia has always indicated he is open to a move to Anfield. “
“Chelsea’s last bid was £55m. Should they proceed it’s again going to come down to player choice…”
“Not quite the same as with Moises Caicedo, who was set on Chelsea. Lavia has spent much of the summer telling Liverpool he is keen on joining prior to Chelsea formally entering the race. And Liverpool have moved quickly and with a higher offer than Chelsea’s last bid.”
“Saints indicating it will simply come down to player choice, which implies they are willing to do a deal with both clubs. Second Chelsea vs. Liverpool transfer battle in the space of a few days potentially incoming…”
🚨 Liverpool have now had a £60m package for Romeo Lavia accepted by Southampton. As expected, things moving fast.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) August 14, 2023
Lavia has always indicated he is open to a move to Anfield.
Chelsea's last bid was £55m. Should they proceed it's again going to come down to player choice… pic.twitter.com/F8Ma6lAVJB