Liverpool are on well on their way to losing the race to sign Moises Caicedo, who is set to join Chelsea for a British record fee of £115m.
The Reds had a deal in place with Brighton but the player refused to move to Anfield and that gave Chelsea time to work out an agreement with the Seagulls.
Lavia is now the player both clubs are again fighting to sign and Liverpool are said to be ready to table a bid of £55m with Southampton and match Chelsea’s offer.
But it has been claimed that Chelsea have the edge over Liverpool in the race to sign the 19-year-old as well.
And for the moment Lavia is closer to moving to Stamford Bridge than Liverpool.
The Reds have had a few bids rejected by Southampton but are in dire need of signing a defensive midfielder.
Lavia was keen on a move to Liverpool, but Chelsea could turn his head.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can manage to turn the tide and convince the midfielder to move to Anfield.
