Liverpool have reportedly moved ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign Southampton's Romeo Lavia, with the Merseyside club preparing to make an opening bid for the player.
The 19-year-old joined the South Coast club from Manchester City in July 2022 and was a regular fixture for the Saints last term, making 29 Premier League appearances, 26 of which were from the start.
Despite receiving plaudits for his performances in Southampton colours, Lavia was unable to prevent the club from finishing bottom of the Premier League standings, meaning they will be playing Championship football in August for the first time since 2012.
As expected when a long-standing top-flight club are relegated from the riches of the Premier League, it is understood that a host of first-team players will depart St Mary's this summer, with the Belgian midfielder one man who is set for a move away.
According to talkSPORT, Liverpool are preparing to make an offer to Southampton for Lavia in this summer's transfer window, and it is said that the Reds have moved ahead of other suitors in the race for his signature.
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Chelsea have been credited with an interest in the former Man City man, with the Blues' co-director of recruitment Joe Shields recommending the youngster to new boss Mauricio Pochettino.
However, it is believed that the West Londoners are keen to explore other potential signings for their engine room this summer ahead of Lavia, meaning Jurgen Klopp's men could face less competition in securing their target.
It was reported last month last Arsenal had reached a verbal agreement with the Saints midfielder over a move to the Emirates, although Mikel Arteta is said to now be focusing on bringing Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber to North London.
The Gunners are reportedly hopeful that they can finalise a £105m deal for the Hammers captain on Monday, with the England international said to have cut his holiday short to fly back and complete a medical.
Also aiming to announce the signing of Ajax centre-back Timber this week, Arsenal are acting quickly in this year's summer window to ensure they can challenge the likes of Manchester City for the Premier League title once again next season.
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The initial aim for Liverpool next term will be to climb back into the top four after finishing fifth in the Premier League last campaign, although a move to bring Lavia to Anfield will not be cheap for the Europa League contenders.
It is understood that Southampton are demanding £50m for the midfielder, as they look to build a squad which can give their new boss Russell Martin the best chance of escaping the Championship at the first time of asking.
The Saints are yet to bring in any players to the club following their relegation from the Premier League, and supporters will be keenly aware of the business of their second-tier rivals Leicester City, who have signed both Conor Coady and Harry Winks in the past week.
Lavia has made 34 appearances during his year-long Southampton career to date, scoring one goal, and the midfielder also possesses a limited amount of international pedigree, having made his Belgium debut against Germany in March.
Carter White
