Liverpool are not ready to pay over the odds for Southampton star Romeo Lavia.
According to The Athletic, Premier League giants are unwilling to match Southampton’s asking price for defensive midfielder Romeo Lavia in the ongoing summer transfer window. The Saints want £50 million to part ways with the Belgian midfielder.
The 19-year-old was one of Southampton’s standout players in an otherwise poor 2022/23 campaign. His performances attracted attention from several quarters, but the Reds have shown the most keenness on getting a deal done.
However, Jurgen Klopp and co. are not ready to bow down to the Saints’ demands of a transfer fee of £50 million. The Reds have had two bids rejected so far and with the 2023/24 campaign drawing near, they need to ensure their roster is not left void of a defensive midfielder.
Lavia is young and could prove to be a long-term replacement for Fabinho as the Reds’ new number six. While it would be too much for the Reds to ask Lavia to replace the Brazilian from the get-go, the youngster’s potential is undeniable.
With Liverpool now threatening to walk away, attention should shift to the other targets on the club’s radar. One of the names on that list is that of Brazilian star Andre, who has been impressing for Samba giants Fluminense.
The 22-year-old is making a name for himself in South America and will certainly add physicality and fight to the Reds’ midfield. He is also an able progressor of the ball and should fit Klopp’s system to a tee.
With Fabinho and Jordan Henderson both no longer at the club, it is a systematic failure from Liverpool that they do not already have a readymade replacement lined up. Surely Jorg Schmadtke can work his magic and reinforce the roster, lest familiar failings continue to plague the club once again.
Lavia started Southampton’s 2023/24 Championship opener against Sheffield United earlier today. Whether it was a sign that the 19-year-old is on his way out remains to be seen. Either way, time is running out for Liverpool to land their man.
