Liverpool reportedly intend to make a second approach for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia.
When Southampton signed the Manchester City youngster last summer, he was expected to be slowly bedded into the side under Ralph Hasenhuttl.
Instead, the 19-year-old became one of the players of the season at St Mary's, making a total of 26 starts and three substitute outings in the Premier League.
Although the Saints were ultimately relegated to the Championship, Lavia's stock has risen considerably and he is now regarded as one of the most sought-after youngsters in European football.
While Southampton would have already expected interest in the Belgium international's signature, numerous admirers have emerged due to an awareness of Man City possessing a buy-back clause in 2024.
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At a time when the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with Lavia, Liverpool are viewed as the current most likely destination due to their greater need for central midfielders.
Furthermore, the Merseyside giants have also made one official bid for the starlet, a bid in the region of £37m having been rejected by Southampton who are seemingly keen to recoup £50m.
However, according to The Athletic, Liverpool will be making a fresh attempt to negotiate a deal with their counterparts on the South Coast.
Despite a specific fee not being mentioned, it is alleged that Liverpool may look to include a number of add-ons in order to meet Southampton's demands.
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Head coach Russell Martin, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano, commented on the situation on Tuesday night, saying: "He has a lot going on in his head, not easy for a young player to handle the noise, but he's handled it well. Latest news is very public, he may still be here he may not".
Liverpool had already been in need of fresh faces for midfield due to the exits of James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on free transfers.
Alexis Mac Allister has been brought in to bolster the club's ranks, yet Jordan Henderson is on the brink of leaving Anfield for Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq.
The future of Thiago Alcantara is also up in the air with teams from Spain ready to join Turkish sides in the race for the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich man's signature.
Darren Plant
