By Fraser Fletcher, Transfer Correspondent

26th Jul, 2023 | 7:33am

Revealed: Chelsea wait in the wings to beat Liverpool to Romeo Lavia deal

Chelsea have done a lot of work behind the scenes on a deal for Romeo Lavia and have still not give up hope of beating Liverpool to his signature, sources have told Football Insider.

Southampton have rejected Liverpool’s opening bid for Lavia, thought to have been worth about £35m rising to £40m, with the club holding out for a £50m package for the teenage midfielder.

Liverpool are expected to return with a second offer, but Chelsea continue to wait in the wings. They are expecting to see what happens with Moises Caicedo before progressing with a move for Lavia.

Football Insider first revealed that the Londoners were interested in Lavia back in March alongside Arsenal and Man United, as well as his former club Man City.

The 19-year-old’s Southampton contract runs until 2027 after he signed from City last summer but could be on the move a year after his arrival following the Saints’ relegation.

Lavia is keen to continue playing in the Premier League and continue his development.

The Saints are believed to be holding out for £50million for Lavia with former club City entitled to 20 per cent of any fee received for his services.

But Chelsea are also pursuing a deal for Brighton star Moises Caicedo and are waiting to see how that plays out before deciding whether to progress with a move for Lavia.

Earlier this month (13 July), Football Insider revealed that Mauricio Pochettino’s side are confident of securing a deal for the 21-year-old worth £80m in total.

The Ecuador international has been a long term target for the Blues and has already agreed personal terms with the London club.

In other news, Chelsea are on track to land £10m windfall – clauses revealed.