Liverpool are accelerating to beat Chelsea to £42m Lavia signing

Liverpool are accelerating their efforts to sign Southampton sensation Romeo Lavia and are expected to beat both Chelsea to his signature.

Jurgen Klopp made signing the 19-year-old Belgian a priority after signing Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig.

Alexis Mac Allister also joined the club earlier this summer with both players showcasing their ability in pre-season this summer.

Fans are eagerly anticipating further signings with the hope that Liverpool's summer business won't end with a move to sign Lavia.

What's the latest on Lavia to Liverpool?

On Monday, the Times reported that Liverpool are following up on their second bid to Southampton which was rejected.

The offer was worth around £34 million plus £4 million in add-ons while Fabrizio Romano claims the second bid will be worth an estimated total of £45 million.

Rudy Galetti confirmed last week that Chelsea are interested but are not in talks to sign Lavia but Romano reports Liverpool are still under pressure from the Blues.

Speaking to Caught Offside, the Italian reports: “Jurgen Klopp has spoken about working on solutions for midfield, but my understanding remains that the priority is still absolutely Romeo Lavia.

“Liverpool will try to find the best way to sign him also because they’re aware of Chelsea interest.”

Will Liverpool complete a deal to sign Lavia?

Lavia is an extremely important signing despite his age. With Fabinho having departed for the Saudi Pro League, Jurgen Klopp doesn't have a natural holding midfielder in his squad.

Speculation online points towards a potential start in the no.6 role for Curtis Jones on the opening day of the season against Chelsea. While the 22-year-old is a fine player, he is not a natural holding midfielder.

Lavia, although just 19, showcased his class in this role.

Liverpool are increasingly confident of their ability to complete a deal for Lavia, reports Neil Jones.

An agreement with Southampton is growing nearer and should not be far off now.