are surprise contenders in the race to sign Romeo Lavia from Southampton, as they look to beat Liverpool to the midfielder’s signature.
The 19-year-old has attracted the attention of a string of big clubs looking to take advantage of the Saints’ relegation from the .
Liverpool have already made two bids for the Belgium international, but both have been rejected, with the Championship club holding out for around £50m for one of their most valuable assets.
suggest the Reds are coming back with a third bid for Lavia, closer to Southampton’s asking price, but they may face competition late in the battle to sign him.
report that Manchester United are considering swooping and trying to gazump their great rival’s move for Lavia by making a bid themselves.
The Red Devils have been working on a deal for Fiorentina and Morocco midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, although a bid is yet to go in for the 26-year-old.
Lavia would represent a younger alternative, although probably not a cheaper one if the Saints do hold out for £50m.
Liverpool appear to be in more desperate need for a holding midfielder than United after the departure of Fabinho to the Saudi Pro League.
Jurgen Klopp does not have an obvious candidate to fill that role and will almost certainly buy someone to play there, even if it is not Lavia.
Erik ten Hag has Casemiro at his disposal in that position, but is clearly keen to add another central midfielder to his squad, given their pursuit of Amrabat for much of the summer.
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