Liverpool transfer explodes into life with talks on £45m deal ‘advancing’ to leave Newcastle free to sign £40m alternative

James Marshment 04 Jul 2023 2:10 PM

Romeo Lavia has rejected Liverpool to join Chelsea

Liverpool are readying an opening offer to sign Romeo Lavia after deciding to make the Southampton their next priority signing in a move that will free up Newcastle to land one of Jurgen Klopp’s alternative targets.

Jurgen Klopp’s side endured a disappointing and underwhelming 2022/23 season, finishing outside the Champions League places. That fifth-placed finish ensures they will compete in the Europa League next season. It’s also the lowest position they have finished in during a full season under the German’s control.

A big factor in their fall from grace was a surprising lack of verve in midfield. But with James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all departing, Klopp has been given permission – and the funds – to significantly rebuild the side.

To that end, Klopp and Co have wasted little time in strengthening their ranks. Alexis Mac Allister was brought in for an initial £35m soon after the season was completed. And over the weekend, Liverpool were able to wrap up their second summer signing, paying RB Leipzig £60m for Dominik Szoboszlai.

That near £100m double investment is certainly a big show of intent from owners FSG. And while the double deal has fans excited, the pair will be far from their last signings of the summer.

To that end, Jamie Carragher has hinted at who he thinks will be Liverpool’s next two signings this summer.

Having signed a new No 10 (Szoboszlai) and a new No 8 (Mac Allister), reports are growing that Klopp now wants a new No 6.

With that in mind, Liverpool have been strongly linked with three targets in Khephren Thuram, Kouadio Kone and Lavia.

Liverpool prepare opening offer for Romeo Lavia

However, with Kone recently picking up a knee injury, he has been ruled out the equation.

And reports claim Nice’s apparent indecision at selling Thuram has seen the Reds cool their interest in him too.

As a result, Lavia has emerged as Liverpool’s next major transfer priority. The Belgian youngster impressed in the Southampton midfield, despite their relegation from the Premier League.

Winning their Player of the Year; that form since earning him links to former club Manchester City and Arsenal.

However, Arsenal appear ready to turn their attention towards Aurelien Tchouameni, leaving Liverpool free to focus on Lavia.

And with Saints willing to sell the 19-year-old, Liverpool are reportedly prepping an opening offer.

Now Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri has revealed what the first Liverpool bid will entail.

He tweeted: “The Reds – that already kept information on the price tag to #SouthamptonFC – will try for getting a deal around £40m but starting soon with a first bid certainly lower than that.”

Furthermore, he claims talks on the player’s side over a move to Anfield are ‘advancing well’.

That said, Saints will likely reject the Reds’ opening offer, amid claims they value the star at nearer £50m. And while they might find it tough to achieve that price, the belief is the two parties will eventually settle on a deal that could rise to £45m with add-ons.

Newcastle ready to move for Khephren Thuram

With Liverpool hopeful of a deal for Lavia, that will leave Newcastle free to pursue a deal for Thuram.

The 22-year-old enjoyed an outstanding season in Ligue 1, scoring two goals and adding four assists from his defensive midfield role.

That form has earned him full international honours with France, following in his father Lilian and brother Marcus’ footsteps.

As a result, Liverpool have strongly explored the possibility of bringing the player to Anfield.

However, their decision not to pursue a deal will now open the door for Newcastle to make a move.

And according to Foot Mercato, Eddie Howe’s side are now reportedly ready to move for Thuram.

The Ligue 1 side are reportedly seeking around £40m for the midfielder. And with Howe keen to bolster his options ahead of their return to the Champions League, a bid to bring him to St James’ Park could be imminent.

Thuram is keen to play at the very highest level and Newcastle can certainly offer him that this coming season.

Romeo Lavia Khephren Thuram