Liverpool made Lavia a key target in recent weeks, but refused to meet Southampton’s £50m asking price for the midfielder.

 

When Chelsea made their move and offered more money, Liverpool put £60m on the table for Lavia, however he has snubbed the Reds in favour of heading to Stamford Bridge.

 

 

 

Chelsea are offering Lavia higher wages than were being proposed to him at Liverpool, but the Belgian’s choice is not just about money.

 

The role of Joe Shields, recruitment director at Chelsea and formerly of Southampton, is claimed to have been key.

 

 

Chelsea are now finalising the capture of Lavia as they continue to splash the cash in the transfer market.

 

The Blues have committed to paying around £115m for midfielder Moises Caicedo, who has joined from Brighton.

 

 

It remains to be seen where Liverpool will now turn after missing out on both Caicedo and Lavia, amidst selling Jordan Henderson and Fabinho without bringing in replacements first.