Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp “wants” the Reds to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg.

The journalist has confirmed what other sources have said that the Merseysiders are holding “talks” about signing the Belgian international, but he also says that Klopp is driving the club’s interest:

Talks between Liverpool & #Lavia are concrete and ongoing.

🔴 Understand there is no agreement in terms of salary conditions yet. #LFC

➡️ As reported: His price tag is around £50m
➡️ Klopp wants him!

ℹ️: Very press resistant player – even in high pressure situations, he… pic.twitter.com/sFCxiFP7UR

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 9, 2023

As Plettenberg mentions, while discussions have taken place, there is no agreement over a transfer fee and there is still work to be done on personal terms as well.

The £50m price tag remains the big sticking point

Southampton’s valuation is deemed excessive by Liverpool but the Saints do have reasons for demanding so much for the player.

Lavia’s previous club, Manchester City, will get 20% of the transfer fee so, even if they sell the teenager for £50m, the Championship side will only get £40m.

With the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United also keen on the midfielder, Southampton may be hoping that at least one team will match the asking price.

Are Liverpool considering alternatives?

Different journalists have differing accounts with regards to the Reds’ stance on recruiting a third midfielder this summer. Some have claimed that more additions are dependent on outgoings, but the fact that the club are holding talks about signing Lavia does suggest otherwise.

If the Merseyside club are seriously considering adding more options in midfield, they may have to explore alternatives to Lavia if the Saints don’t lower their demands. The likes of Nice’s Khephren Thuram, Ajax’s Ryan Gravenberch and Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone could all be looked at again in the coming weeks.