Chelsea have hijack the race to sign highly-rated Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, MySportDab reports.
The London club have now joined the race for Romeo Lavia and are beginning with a straight first offer for the player to wrap up a deal as soon as possible.
Liverpool have been in the race to sign Romeo Lavia and were considered favorites.
They have submitted a round of bids for the player which has been turned by Southampton.
Their last offer, which has also been turned by the club is £46m, £4m down from Southampton’s asking price of £50m.
Now, Chelsea are more likely to snap up Romeo Lavia in a shock swoop to bolster the club’s midfield.
The Blues have reportedly tabled a £48m first bid for Romeo Lavia just £2m short of Southampton’s demand.
It is still unknown whether Liverpool will bid again for Romeo Lavia following Chelsea’s latest offer but it is understood Chelsea are more likely to win the race for the youngster.
Southampton are yet to take a decision on Chelsea’s bid and it is unclear whether they will reject or accept the offer.
Meanwhile, Southampton dropped off Romeo Lavia from their clash against Gillingham in EFL Cup – a signal the club is open to Lavia’s imminent departure.
With Chelsea’s £48m bid, it is more likely the Blues will wrap up a deal for Lavia while Liverpool loses the race.
Elsewhere, Chelsea are still in the chase of another top young midfielder, Moises Caicedo despite having several bids for the player rejected.
