The Belgium international had a top debut season with the Saints last term, but he has been fancied to leave following their relegation.

Liverpool are most interested in landing his signature, but they have been unable to convince the Saints to lower their asking price.

The Reds initially made a £37m bid for the teenager before improving their proposal to £42m. A third offer of £45m was recently made.

The South Coast outfit are currently reluctant to accept less than £50m for him, and the onus is on Liverpool to meet the price tag.

The news could come as a boost for the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea , who have been following the Belgian prodigy in recent months.

It is unclear whether either of them will try to hijack the deal. Arsenal previously saw Lavia as Thomas Partey 's replacement.

Related

---