Romeo Lavia has reported decided to sign for Chelsea despite efforts from Liverpool all summer to sign the midfielder.
According to David Ornstein, the Southampton prospect has chosen to move to west London over a switch to Anfield, with Liverpool now losing to Chelsea for both Lavia and Moises Caicedo.
Liverpool had today submitted a fourth bid for Lavia believed to be worth £60m, yet it now looks like this offer was in vain with the 19-year-old choosing a move to Chelsea.
Having missed out on Caicedo, Lavia was viewed by many as Liverpool’s dream alternative for the Ecuador international. Yet the Reds have now missed out on both players.
With time running out for Liverpool to sign a midfielder, losing the race for the Southampton star will come across as a massive blow for the Merseyside giants, especially when the Chelsea factor is considered.
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With Chelsea close to signing Caicedo, it seems odd for Lavia to choose a move to Stamford Bridge rather than Anfield given how limited the midfielder’s playing opportunities will be.
Liverpool’s need for a defensive midfielder means Lavia could have been a regular for Jurgen Klopp’s side straight from the off, whereas the youngster will have to win a place under Mauricio Pochettino.
With Chelsea spending a British record for Caicedo, though, the odds of Lavia actually becoming a regular feels slim, with the midfielder already an early candidate to depart west London in 2024.