Liverpool are braced to fight off late attempts from rivals and for Southampton ace Romeo Lavia.
The Reds had an initial £36m bid for the midfielder turned down by the Saints last week.
That was following Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia, and he has since been joined by Fabinho in the middle-east.
That’s left a gaping hole in Liverpool’s midfield and wants reinforcements before the Premier League season starts.
Southampton have made it clear that they’re seeking around £50m to let Lavia leave the club, and they’re realistic about their chances of keeping him following their relegation to the Championship.
Liverpool are expected to return with a bid in the region of £45m but the say that will provide a window of opportunity for United and Chelsea.
Chelsea have made contact with Lavia’s camp after being frustrated in their attempts to sign Brighton ace Moises Caicedo.
The Seagulls are seeking £100m for the midfielder, meaning Lavia would come in for exactly half the price.
United are expected to complete a deal for Rasmus Hojlund in the next 48 hours before moving on to signing a midfielder.
Sofyan Amrabat had been a key target for Erik ten Hag but Fiorentina are seeking around £30m for the 26-year-old.
Lavia could therefore be seen as a shrewder investment.
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