Chelsea launch £55million bid to sign Southampton star Romeo Lavia in transfer blow to Liverpool

Chelsea have submitted a £55million bid to sign Romeo Lavia from Southampton, talkSPORT understands.

The Blues are in advanced talks with Russell Martin’s side as they look to bolster their midfeld.

Chelsea are closing in on an agreement for LaviaGetty

The midfielder starred in the Premier League last seasonGetty

Liverpool are still keen on signing the player, however it’s Mauricio Pochettino’s side who are in the driving seat.

Chelsea made an offer earlier this week which was worth in the region of £48million, but that was turned down by the Saints.

Liverpool have had three bids rejected for Lavia, with Chelsea understood to have now offered £55m – £5m more than Southampton’s valuation.

The Reds have been in discussions over a move for Lavia for much of the summer, however it’s Chelsea who now appear to be leading the chase.

The two clubs are also battling to sign to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton.

While Chelsea have been interested in the Ecuadorian starlet, it is Liverpool that have agreed a British-record £111million deal to sign the 21-year-old.

Though talkSPORT understands that Caicedo is stalling on a switch to Anfield as Chelsea still look to bring him to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are yet to make a new bid for Caicedo, but it is believed they will now need to match the Reds’ offer.