By Alan Hutton

9th Aug, 2023 | 3:44pm

Liverpool told to complete 'amazing' Romeo Lavia deal after Sky update- pundit

Alan Hutton has urged Liverpool to pay “whatever it takes” to land Southampton’s Romeo Lavia at the earliest opportunity.

The former Aston Villa and Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the Reds are the “frontrunners” to land the 19-year-old – but warned of “amazing” interest from Arsenal potentially turning his head.

According to Sky Sports (7 August), Liverpool have seen a third bid for Lavia – thought to be worth £45million – rejected by Southampton.

Arsenal and Chelsea have maintained a serious interest in the Belgium international throughout the summer window, but are yet to launch a rival bid.

Lavia was omitted from the Southampton squad which last 3-1 away at Gillingham in the League Cup on Tuesday (8 August) as he closes in on an exit.

TThe 19-year-old, whose contract at Southampton runs until June 2027, turned out 34 times across all competitions last season.

Liverpool have held extensive talks over a deal for the Belgium international this summer as they look to replace high-profile duo Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.

Hutton told Football Insider: “He’s got two amazing options – Liverpool and Arsenal.

“It looks like Liverpool are edging ahead in the race and I think they’ll end up paying whatever it takes.

“They need someone like Lavia in that midfield.

“He had an amazing season, and I think he makes that midfield stronger with the outgoings they’ve had.

“But with Arsenal, after spending the money on Declan Rice – I think they’d only go after him if Partey was to leave.

“I think at this moment in time, Liverpool look like the frontrunners – and they need him through the door.”

In other news, Championship side now want “huge” signing from Liverpool.