Liverpool, who had been serious about signing a defensive midfielder since Fabinho left for Saudi Arabia, had been concentrating for some time on Romeo Lavia, the Belgian midfielder who plays for Southampton, and had made three offers for the player.
However, none of the offers were accepted, and while they turned their attention to Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo, who was still in the transfer market, Chelsea made a serious move for Lavia. After similar efforts to persuade the player, he chose to go to London, although Liverpool offered more than the total amount.
According to Ben Jacobs, they are close to agreeing on a sum that adds up to £50 million, and it seems that the player’s decision was based on the head of senior recruitment, who was brought to Chelsea from Southampton in the middle of last season.
“Romeo Lavia has picked Chelsea. No agreement reached yet between Chelsea and Southampton but a package of just over £50m plus add-ons is likely soon. “
“Lavia was open to Liverpool for much of the summer but has decided to pick Chelsea. Joe Shields role important.”
Romeo Lavia has picked Chelsea. No agreement reached yet between Chelsea and Southampton but a package of just over £50m plus add-ons is likely soon.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) August 14, 2023
Lavia was open to #LFC for much of the summer but has decided to pick Chelsea. Joe Shields role important.🇧🇪 pic.twitter.com/Ydwma1N70H
Liverpool has been reinforcing its squad at a rapid pace with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, but the recent stagnation has left even the fans scratching their heads.
As a result, Liverpool should have paid Southampton’s asking price and made a deal for Lavia at an early stage.
Who will Liverpool add to their squad now that they have to turn their attention to other targets?