Liverpool have had “direct contacts” with Southampton about signing midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Belgian international is expected to be the Reds’ next target after recruiting Dominik Szoboszlai but Romano said on his Youtube channel that the Saints will have to drop their £50m asking price for a deal to go ahead:

“Liverpool are now into the race and as I already mentioned, they are into this. They are working on Romeo Lavia and they are now having direct contacts on both player and club side. So, Liverpool and Arsenal are into the race and the two clubs pushing.”

“It’s crucial to say though for Liverpool that despite signing Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, there is still the desire to bring in new players. A defensive midfielder, like Lavia. So, Romeo Lavia is now a target for Liverpool. Southampton are demanding around £50m, which is why there’s been no bid yet.”

One of the reasons why Southampton are asking for so much is that Lavia’s previous club, Manchester City, have a 20% sell-on clause. The Premier League champions also have a buyback option on the teenager but that only becomes active next year.

Do Liverpool have other rivals for Lavia’s signature?

As Romano also mentions, Arsenal are very interested in the midfielder. However, it is believed that the Gunners will only make a bid if both Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey are sold before the transfer window shuts.

Chelsea reportedly have a longstanding interest in Lavia. The Blues co-Director of Recruitment and Talent Joe Shields has worked with the player at both City and Southampton so he is said to be keen on bringing him to Stamford Bridge. The London club’s primary focus, though, is Moises Caicedo.

Manchester United have been mentioned as a potential suitor too but, from the sound of things, they have prioritised purchasing a goalkeeper and striker.