Southampton have rejected Liverpool's third bid for midfielder Romeo Lavia.
The latest offer is understood to be in the region of £45m.
Southampton and Chelsea are both engaged in talks regarding the 19-year-old, but Southampton is reportedly insisting on their valuation of £50m. Additionally, Chelsea has expressed interest and is closely monitoring his situation.
Lavia has four years remaining on his contract with Southampton. Despite joining the team from Manchester City last year, the Belgium international is expected to depart following Southampton's relegation from the Premier League last season.
Jurgen Klopp has made two major midfield signings in the current transfer window, namely Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton for £35m and Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig for a whopping £60m.
As a result of these acquisitions, key midfielders James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita have departed. Additionally, captain Jordan Henderson and Brazilian star Fabinho have also bid farewell to Anfield this summer, as they have both secured moves to Saudi Arabia.
Analysis: Lavia will help take Liverpool's midfield into new era
Peter Smith believes that if Liverpool manages to sign Romeo Lavia, it would mark the completion of their midfield rebuild. Lavia, alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, both of whom were signed in the summer, would contribute to a fresh and revamped midfield. Additionally, there is speculation that Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is currently a defender, may be transitioning into a different role.
"With the potential departures of Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and possibly Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool is undergoing a major overhaul. However, the club's midfield has long been in need of investment, as shortcomings in that area proved to be a significant factor in their struggles last season.
"Anticipate a prominent role for the talented 19-year-old midfielder, Lavia, in the upcoming campaign. He showcased his skills by leading the way among under-21 players in terms of tackles, interceptions, and blocked shots during the 2022/23 season. Moreover, Lavia possesses the necessary technical abilities to excel at the highest level of the Premier League."
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Who will be on the move this summer when the transfer window opens on June 14 and closes at 11pm on September 1 in England and midnight in Scotland? In the midst of this excitement, Lavia emerges as a prominent figure for Liverpool. Having captained youth levels and representing Belgium internationally, Lavia possesses all the qualities that Liverpool seeks. Not only capable of making an immediate impact, he is also destined to become a crucial asset for the Reds in the years to come. Undoubtedly, the dawn of a new era has arrived.Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news and rumours in our dedicated Transfer Centre blog on We' digital platforms. You can also catch up with the ins, outs and analysis on We News.