LIVERPOOL are poised to make a FOURTH bid for Romeo Lavia after learning top target Moises Caicedo is determined to join Chelsea.
Kop boss Jurgen Klopp ordered his recruitment team to explore the possibility of hijacking Brighton ace Caicedo from under the noses of their rivals.
But the midfielder remains Chelsea’s No 1 target and has made it clear that if he leaves the Seagulls it will only be for West London.
Knowledge of the 21-year-old’s views meant no formal bid was registered by Anfield.
Chelsea have offered Southampton £48million with add-ons for Lavia — £3m more than the Reds.
But, after having a third offer of £45m rejected for Lavia, 19, Liverpool will at least match the Blues’ bid — although relegated Southampton want £50m.
However, Saints also know Lavia’s aim is to claim the holding role in a rebuilt Anfield midfield.
Personal terms between the Belgian teen and Klopp’s side have been agreed for weeks.
It was only July last year that Lavia moved to St Mary’s from Manchester City for £10.5m.
He is convinced he will become a crucial member of Klopp’s side right from the start.
DREAM TEAM IS LIVE – JOIN NOW TO BATTLE FOR THE £50k TOP PRIZE
But if he moved to Stamford Bridge, he believes he would only be the second choice of new boss Mauricio Pochettino.
The Blues have not met Brighton’s £100m valuation for Ecuador’s Caicedo but remain confident.
And the cat-and-mouse games between the sides are bound to add spice to Sunday’s season opener at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are also moving for Leeds’ USA captain Tyler Adams after triggering the midfielder’s £20m release clause.
TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and confirmed switches from the world of football
