Prior to the Daily Echo’s initial revelation of Chelsea’s attempted hijacking of the deal last week, the Reds had been pursuing Lavia with open conversations for a fortnight.
The Blues reportedly increased their offer to £48 million and then nearly completed the signing of Moises Caicedo, a midfielder for Brighton & Hove Albion.
Jason Wilcox, Southampton’s director of football, and the club are now in a good negotiating position, especially in light of Liverpool’s midfield issues during their Sunday 1-1 draw with Chelsea.
Russell Martin wants a quick resolution after leaving the Belgian international out of his team for Saturday’s draw with Norwich City, therefore Lavia is anticipated to leave Saints this week.
Now, according to The Guardian, Liverpool, and Saints have reached an agreement on a £60 million transfer fee for Lavia, who joined Manchester City for just £12 million last summer.
Lavia allegedly came to London last weekend to complete a transfer to Stamford Bridge, so Liverpool still has to persuade him to join them at Anfield.
To renew talks with Lavia, Chelsea will need to make a second offer that is equal to or more than Liverpool’s £60 million.
The Daily Echo is awaiting word and will update as soon as possible.