In an unexpected turn of events, Liverpool have reportedly entered the race for Southampton‘s young star Romeo Lavia, potentially throwing a spanner in the works of Arsenal’s ongoing negotiations.

As the transfer saga continues to unfold, will Liverpool’s interest disrupt Arsenal’s plans or drive them to hasten their pursuit?

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Romeo Lavia of Southampton looks dejected after the team's defeat in the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton FC at St. James Park on April 30, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 30: Romeo Lavia of Southampton looks dejected after the team’s defeat in the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton FC at St. James Park on April 30, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
  • Liverpool make an unexpected enquiry about Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, potentially disrupting Arsenal’s ongoing negotiations.
  • Despite the interest from various clubs, Arsenal have been leading the pursuit of the young Belgian midfielder, with advanced talks underway.
  • The entry of Liverpool into the race could pose a significant obstacle to Arsenal’s transfer plans.

Liverpool eye Romeo Lavia, Arsenal’s target

In an unexpected twist in the transfer saga of Romeo Lavia, Liverpool have reportedly made enquiries to Southampton about the possibility of a deal.

Belgium's Romeo Lavia pictured during a training session of the U21 youth team of the Belgian national soccer team Red Devils, Friday 09 June 2023 in Tubize. The Belgian U21 team is preparing for the 2023 European championships in Georgia and Romania from June 21st to July 8th. (Photo by BRUNO FAHY/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)
Belgium’s Romeo Lavia pictured during a training session of the U21 youth team of the Belgian national soccer team Red Devils, Friday 09 June 2023 in Tubize. The Belgian U21 team is preparing for the 2023 European championships in Georgia and Romania from June 21st to July 8th. (Photo by BRUNO FAHY/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

This move has come as a potential disruption to Arsenal’s ongoing negotiations with the south-coast club.

Arsenal have been actively working on securing the promising young Belgian, despite interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.

However, Liverpool’s sudden interest presents a significant obstacle, as they too seek to refresh their midfield.

Liverpool’s interest: A blow to Arsenal’s plans?

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Alexis Mac Allister of Brighton & Hove Albion celebrates after scoring the team's first goal from the penalty spot during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United at American Express Community Stadium on May 04, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – MAY 04: Alexis Mac Allister of Brighton & Hove Albion celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United at American Express Community Stadium on May 04, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Liverpool’s entry into the race comes after they completed a £35m deal for Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister.

Their enquiry about the conditions for a Lavia deal could potentially dampen Arsenal’s hopes, although the Gunners have not yet put forward an official bid.

Lavia has been a standout performer for Southampton, becoming the first player born in 2004 to score in the Premier League.

Despite Southampton’s relegation, his 34 appearances and his debut for the Belgian national team caught the attention of several top-flight clubs.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Arsenal’s advanced talks for Romeo Lavia, and the potential complications posed by Liverpool’s interest and Manchester City’s special clause, will make for a compelling watch for football fans.