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Arsenal have just put pressure on Liverpool to speed up Romeo Lavia transfer bid
Arsenal and Liverpool are both linked with a move for Southampton star Romeo Lavia.
Arsenal have put pressure on Liverpool to speed up their move for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia. The Gunners could step up their own interest in the player following developments on Thomas Partey's future.
Lavia impressed in his first season at Southampton after joining from Manchester City last summer. He was a shining light in an otherwise dismal campaign for Saints, who were relegated to the Championship after finishing rock bottom.
The 19-year-old's performances have seen him linked with a move to a host of top clubs. Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and former club City are all admirers of the Belgian.
Arsenal have just signed Declan Rice for a club-record fee of £105million. Chelsea, meanwhile, are hoping to secure a deal for Brighton star Moises Caicedo.
Liverpool have already brought in two midfielders this summer, signing Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. However, Fabinho looks set to move to the Saudi Pro League, while captain Jordan Henderson could follow him through the exit door.
Fabinho's exit in particular would leave Liverpool in need of a defensive midfielder. Lavia is one of the top targets despite his relative lack of experience.
However, if they are not quick, they could face strong competition from a rival. Arsenal, at the moment, don't need to sign another player of Lavia's ilk.
But reports from Saudi Arabia claim Partey has agreed personal terms with an unnamed club in the Saudi Pro League. A fee is yet to be finalised and Arsenal may be reluctant to sell.
However, if Partey does go, they will need to replace him. Lavia may well be near the top of the list of targets.
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CBS Sports claims Arsenal will formally enter the race for the teenager if Partey does leave. Liverpool may have to move fast in the coming days to ensure they do not miss out on the player.
If Arsenal do come calling, they can offer Lavia Champions League football next season. Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League and therefore will instead be in the Europa League.
The Reds may be able to offer Lavia more of a regular starting spot. He could be a direct replacement for Fabinho but only a backup to Rice at Arsenal.
However, Liverpool cannot afford to take that risk. If Lavia is the chosen target for Jurgen Klopp, the club's transfer team must move quickly in order to steal a march on any potential competition.