Liverpool transfer news: The Reds are exploring alternatives amid their latest Roméo Lavia bid. They are also said to retain interest in a $60m forward option.
With less than two weeks to go until the start of the new season, time is running out for Liverpool if it wants to get its squad settled in time to face Chelsea.
With Fabinho’s departure having now been confirmed, with the Brazilian following Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabia, the Reds’ need for new midfielders has once
again grown, and it’s not the only position needing some bolstering.
Jürgen Klopp will also know his side could do with a new defensive addition, but with the unexpected departures of two of his most senior operators in the middle of
the park, the focus has been shifted back to midfield.
Roméo Lavia would appear to be the likeliest option to come in before the start of the new season, although Liverpool is taking its time with its approach for the
Southampton teenager. It seems if it can’t land him, alternatives are being looked at.
And, despite the obvious need for midfielders and defenders, the Reds continue to be linked with one forward option in particular.
Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today.
Roméo Lavia (Southampton) and André (Fluminense)
Liverpool has made an improved offer for Roméo Lavia, but has also identified Fluminense midfielder André as a potential alternative, according to Sky Sports’
Melissa Reddy.
The new offer for Lavia is said to be closer to Southampton’s asking price, but is still below an initial $51m (£40m/€47m) without add-ons. The Reds are reportedly
exploring other options should they deem the Saints’ valuation to remain excessive, with André among those identified. His club has officially been contacted by
Liverpool.
Liverpool.com says: With less than two weeks to go until the season starts, Liverpool really does need to get a move on in finding a replacement for Fabinho.
You can understand why the club might feel the fee is excessive, but at the same time, it needs to get a deal done for Lavia.
As for André, it would be a surprise to see Liverpool signing a player straight from South America, and even more so as an alternative to Lavia. Having lost both
Fabinho and Henderson, he should surely be looked at as another option alongside the teenager.
Federico Chiesa (Juventus)
Liverpool remains interested in Federico Chiesa, according to La Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Paisley Gates).
According to the Italian outlet, Juventus is prepared to offload the 25-year-old if it receives an ‘indispensable’ offer, with Liverpool ‘vigilant’ to the situation. A recent
report from Corriere dello Sport suggested Juventus would demand a fee of around $60m (£47m/€55m).
Liverpool.com says: Even when it’s clear that Liverpool has bigger priorities to deal with, links with Chiesa just keep cropping up. To put it simply, it’s a deal
that makes practically no sense on every level.
The Italian international has a poor injury record, Liverpool is already well-stocked in the front line, and there’s virtually zero chance the Reds would spend
$60m after sorting their midfield and defensive needs out first. If Juventus want to get rid, they’ll have to look elsewhere.
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‘Feel in control’: Liverpool very optimistic that they can sign ‘incredible’ player – journalist
Liverpool are continuing to pursue Romeo Lavia and journalist Ben Jacobs has provided an update and shared the fact that the club still feel confident of signing the
player.
Liverpool are clearly desperate to bring the defensive midfielder to the club. Reports have suggested that they have already had a bid rejected.
Now, it looks like Liverpool are confident despite previous bids being accepted. No doubt this is great news for manager Jurgen Klopp.
He said: “Liverpool’s £41m bid for Romeo Lavia has been rejected, as Melissa Reddy reported. Bid wasn’t only placed an hour ago.
“Optimism a deal can be struck for less than £50m. Talks will continue. Chelsea can’t be discounted, but Liverpool feel in control because Lavia wants the move.”
Liverpool confident that they can sign Lavia
Lavia is only 19 years-old but has already demonstrated that he can perform to a high level in the Premier League. His ceiling is very high and under a great coach
like Klopp, Lavia can flourish.
Liverpool have already lost two midfielders in Lavia and Henderson. Due to this, you can see why they are trying to sign a young upcoming talent like Lavia.
The ‘incredible’ midfielder would add some good defensive quality to the new-look midfield and be a player who can flourish in the side for many years.
It is also good to hear that the club are optimistic about signing him. This will obviously get Liverpool fans very excited.
Multiple exciting midfielders have already been bought. These have been a lot more attacking based and so they would be perfectly complemented by Lavia.
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