‘He may not’: Coach admits £50m player could leave, after claims Liverpool are trying to sign him

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Russell Martin has admitted that Romeo Lavia could leave at Southampton this summer following Liverpool’s recent bid.

The Southampton head coach spoke to BBC Radio Solent about the Reds’ transfer pursuit of the midfielder following their pre-season defeat to Bournemouth, in which Lavia featured from the start.

Various reports claimed that Liverpool had submitted a £35 million plus add-ons for Lavia yesterday as they looked to bring in a replacement for either of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.

Southampton quickly turned down the offer as it was far from their £50m valuation, while they continued with business as usual against the Cherries.

Lavia was handed a place in the starting line-up at St Mary’s before he was replaced at half-time, with reports claiming he was ‘coasting’ in the game.

Despite the 19-year-old’s underwhelming performance, Martin praised him for his attitude during a chaotic couple of days.

“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,” Martin said.

“”Latest news is very public, he may still be here he may not.”

The arrival of Romeo Lavia is all down to Liverpool now

Despite having their initial bid knocked back, all signs point to Anfield for Romeo Lavia now.

The Belgian is thought to be keen on a move to Merseyside and has already agreed personal terms, while the final hurdle remains to be resolved as the two clubs look to agree on a fee.

However, Fabrizio Romano has this morning reported that the Reds are set to launch a second bid and could be within touching distance of snatching Lavia from their grasp.

From an outsiders perspective, it looks like this move should all be pretty straight forward and it remains completely down to Liverpool as to whether they will meet Southampton’s demands.

However, Liverpool’s struggles in adding to their midfield in recent years has probably left fans feeling a little pessimistic and will eagerly await a confirmation by the club before the party balloons come out.