Liverpool have reportedly failed with their opening official bid for in-demand Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia.
Despite playing his part in the Saints' relegation from the Premier League, the Belgium international is one of the most sought-after young players in English football.
The former Manchester City youngster made 26 starts and three substitute outings in the top flight in his first year at St Mary's, and that stands to be his solitary campaign on the South Coast.
As a result of City possessing a buy-back clause that comes into effect in 2024, admirers of the 19-year-old are taking the opportunity to try to sign him before the end of August.
For a sale to make sense to Southampton at this stage, they are requesting a fee higher than City's future option, and the expectation is that the Championship outfit will eventually receive their valuation.
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According to The Athletic, Liverpool have made their strongest move yet in a bid to wrap up a deal ahead of many of their Premier League rivals.
However, the report says that their bid of £37m has been rebuffed by Southampton, who allegedly intend to hold out for a fee in the region of £50m.
The Merseyside giants will now deliberate over whether to make an improved approach, aware that other teams could follow suit and put forward a proposal.
Jurgen Klopp are increasingly eager to add midfielders to his squad courtesy of Jordan Henderson on the brink of joining James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in leaving Anfield.
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While Alexis Mac Allister has been brought to the club, Liverpool are still short of senior options in the engine room, even if Fabinho ends up remaining at the club.
Liverpool seem likely to generate in the region of £13m for the sale of Henderson to Al Ettifaq, a necessary figure if they are to progress with the additions of other players.
With regards to Lavia, Arsenal could emerge as the most likely to challenge Liverpool for his signature, but Chelsea have also been linked in the past.
Southampton are also having to contemplate the exit of club captain James Ward-Prowse at a time when West Ham United are attempting to negotiate a deal for the Englishman.
Darren Plant
