Man Utd surprise Liverpool in Romeo Lavia chase, as two sources confirm big bid coming

Two sources have confirmed Liverpool are primed to up their bid for Romeo Lavia, though Man Utd may yet pull off a shock, per a report.

Lavia, 19, has emerged as Liverpool’s primary candidate to replace Fabinho in the holding midfield role. The Reds were exploring a move for the Belgium international even before Fabinho’s £40m move to Al Ittihad took shape. But with the Brazilian’s exit agreed, Lavia would now replace rather than compete with Fabinho if signed.

To that end, Liverpool have already seen a £37m bid knocked back by Southampton. The Saints have made it crystal clear their asking price is £50m.

Now, both Fabrizio Romano and the Daily Mail report the Reds are primed to lodge an improved offer.

Romano provided greater detail on the imminent bid, claiming it’ll be “sent soon” and is “in the region of £45m.”

That is still £5m below Southampton’s valuation and as such, may well be rejected.

The longer Liverpool delay, the more they run the risk of seeing another club swoop in for an in-demand player.

Indeed, the Mail acknowledge Chelsea’s interest and the Blues are known to view Lavia as a more cost-effective option to Moises Caicedo.

The Brighton ace remains their priority, though they and the surprise name of Man Utd could threaten Liverpool’s plans.

Man Utd have thus far only had fleeting links with Lavia. However, the Mail insist the Red Devils are a ‘surprise element’ in the mix.

Furthermore, it’s claimed Man Utd have begun exploring moves at goalkeeper, centre-half and in central midfield on the back of striking an agreement to sign Rasmus Hojlund.

Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat is the player who has drawn the strongest links with Man Utd and valued at around £25m, would cost around half the price it’ll take to sign Lavia.

But if a move for the Fiorentina star fails to take shape, it’s Lavia who Man Utd could turn to. Before then, at least one of Fred, Donny van de Beek and Scott McTominay must be sold.

Of course, Liverpool remain on pole position for Lavia having already agreed personal terms with the player.

But if they refuse to meet Southampton’s asking price, there are threats lurking in the shadows.

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