Exciting Southampton Showdown: Lavia and Ward-Prowse Set for Championship Opener against Sheffield Wednesday, Streamed Live on Sky Sports!

Southampton manager Russell Martin has confirmed that transfer targets Romeo Lavia and James Ward-Prowse will participate in their Championship opener against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday, which will be broadcast live on We.

According to We News, Southampton recently turned down an enhanced offer from Liverpool for Lavia, as it was still below their initial valuation of £40m. The club is reportedly holding out for £50m for the Belgian international.

Southampton rejected West Ham's £30m offer for Ward-Prowse, as they value the 28-year-old closer to £40m. While West Ham and Liverpool remain determined to sign their targets, they are exploring alternative options. Both players are expected to play in Southampton's opening game against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night, which will be televised on We.

"As of now, both players will be participating in the Friday night game," Martin mentioned during his pre-match press conference. Uncertain about any possible changes in the meantime, he admits to having no knowledge of whether they will remain Southampton players by the end of the transfer window. Though he has his own hopes and speculations, Martin recognizes the futility of making definitive statements regarding their continued presence as he lacks any control in the matter.

"If either of them is absent or both are absent at some point, it is because there is an understanding between the club and the player that is mutually beneficial. This is the reason why the situation has been prolonged. It may continue to be prolonged, but both players have been excellent during their time here, in different stages of their careers."

Regarding the impact of speculations on his players and their preparations for the visit to Hillsborough, Martin stated, "The team has undergone two changes since the beginning of this week, and there might be further adjustments before Friday."

"We need to assemble a team for Friday night that is fully committed and focused on our goals. I hope that nothing changes between now and Friday."

Liverpool still maintain an interest in Lavia and, ideally, they aim to recruit two additional midfielders and a defender before the transfer window concludes.

Southampton turned down Liverpool's initial proposal of £34m with an additional £4m in add-ons for Lavia last week. It is worth noting that Chelsea is also interested in the player. However, Lavia is still determined to make a move to Anfield, and there are no concerns regarding the negotiation of personal terms with both clubs, according to We News.

Lavia has four years remaining on his Southampton contract, which he signed last summer after leaving Manchester City. However, it is anticipated that he will depart as Southampton was relegated from the Premier League at the end of the previous season.

In order for West Ham to secure Ward-Prowse's signature, it is probable that Southampton would need to negotiate and agree upon a lower price.

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