Romeo Lavia makes Liverpool transfer feelings clear as Reds prepare 'ultimate' offer

Liverpool have had two offers for Southampton star Romeo Lavia rejected - but now may be closer to signing the midfielder after he confirmed his preference

Posted Friday, August 04, 2023 by Dailystar.co.uk

Romeo Lavia makes Liverpool transfer feelings clear as Reds prepare 'ultimate' offer
Romeo Lavia is wanted by Liverpool

Liverpool's pursuit of talented midfielder Romeo Lavia has taken an exciting turn as the Southampton star has expressed his strong desire to join the club.

The 19-year-old Belgian international, who made his debut in the Premier League last season, has attracted interest from several top clubs in England. However, it appears that Liverpool are in pole position to secure a deal for the promising youngster.

Despite having their initial offers rejected, Liverpool are undeterred and are preparing their third and "ultimate" offer for Lavia, reports Belgian football journalist Sacha Tavolieri (via the Express). The Reds are expected to submit a bid of around £40 million, with additional add-ons that meet Southampton's demands.

Lavia's camp are said to be eagerly awaiting a new offer after confirming his preference to join Liverpool. If the deal goes through, Lavia would become Jurgen Klopp's third midfield signing of the summer transfer window.

The Reds have been actively seeking to strengthen their midfield for several months following the departures of James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita on free transfers.

Although the Anfield side made significant signings in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai for a combined fee of £95 million in July, Klopp has since faced further setbacks with key midfield players Jordan Henderson and Fabinho leaving.

Romeo Lavia makes Liverpool transfer feelings clear as Reds prepare 'ultimate' offer
Liverpool have already put in two bids for Romeo Lavia

Liverpool believe Lavia would inject youthful energy into a squad that occasionally showed signs of fatigue during a disappointing last campaign. His versatility to play as a box-to-box midfielder or in a more defensive role is also a consideration.

Southampton manager Russell Martin said this week: "Do I think they [Lavia and James Ward-Prowse will be Southampton players by the end of the window? I have not got a clue. What I hope and what I think are probably very different.

Jurgen Klopp is keen to strengthen Liverpool's midfield

"However, it would be pointless to come out and say I think they'll be here or I don't because ultimately I have no control over that really. If they're both not here at some point or one of them isn't it will be because the club and the player have both had something that is beneficial for everyone.

"I think that's why it has dragged on so long so far and I think it might continue to drag on, but both of them while they have been here have been great, at very different stages of their career."