Liverpool could now sign £60 million destroyer instead of Romeo Lavia

Liverpool could now sign OGC Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram over Romeo Lavia as Southampton hold firm on their £50 million valuation of the 19-year-old.

The latest offer that the Saints rejected at £46 million may be the last straw for the Reds with a new report suggesting Liverpool reignite their interest in Khephren Thuram.

Fabrizio Romano now reports that Chelsea have made a £48 million bid - the closest to Southampton's £50 million valuation.

The Northern Echo reported in June that Nice value Thuram at £60 million so unless Liverpool believe the Frenchman has a higher ceiling than Lavia, it would be an odd decision to abandon negotiations with Southampton after three weeks when they are so close to reaching an agreement.

That said, Thuram offers physicality where Lavia lacks but also ticks the same boxes that Liverpool will be very interested in.

Should Liverpool sign Thuram?

If signing Thuram means Liverpool also sign Lavia, it would likely please many fans. Since Jordan Henderson and Fabinho moved to the Saudi Pro League, there is a huge void in the no.6 role.

Lavia and Thuram both suit Liverpool's style of play but if the Reds go into the new summer signing just three defenders after selling or releasing six since the start of last season, Jurgen Klopp will battle to win silverware.

As it is, Liverpool are set to take part of the Europa League instead of the Champions League. Last summer's failures cannot be allowed to be repeated this year.