Liverpool have entered formal talks with Southampton about signing Romeo Lavia, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

It is believed that the Reds have already been in touch with the player’s agent but Romano claims the Merseysiders are now pressing ahead with their plans to secure the 19-year-old’s signature:

Understand Liverpool have approached Southampton for Roméo Lavia — talks on player side have been ongoing for more than one month. 🔴

Jason Wilcox is leading talks now for Southampton and insists on £50m package deal.

Lavia remains one of the top candidates in #LFC list. pic.twitter.com/hvuikLz1iK

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 25, 2023

Due to Lavia’s £50m asking price, it is likely that negotiations will be long and drawn out, with Jurgen Klopp’s side not thought to be willing to pay that much for the player.

Another trusted journalist, who has had the inside track on this story from the get-go, Sacha Tavolieri, says Liverpool are likely to make an opening bid of around £35m.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Lavia suggests Fabinho and Henderson’s departures are close

If the Reds have now made an official approach for the Belgian international, it stands to reason that the midfielder is being lined up to replace a departing player.

Fabinho’s £40m move to Al-Ittihad has been held up, but the Brazilian could still make the switch to Saudi Arabia. Captain Jordan Henderson, on the other hand, is said to be very close to leaving after undergoing a medical ahead of a £12m switch to Al-Ettifaq.

Other clubs could still enter the race for Lavia

Arsenal are known to have had talks with the midfielder’s agent, but it is believed the Gunners may only make an offer for the player if Thomas Partey leaves. After manager Mikel Arteta said last week that he wants the Ghanaian to stay, a move for Lavia now seems unlikely.

Both Chelsea and Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the teenager, though, so Liverpool will be hoping they can wrap up negotiations as quickly as possible to prevent other clubs from hijacking the deal.