Romeo Lavia transfer latest as Liverpool ‘offer’ could be part of Kylian Mbappe plan

Liverpool are preparing to face Leicester city in the latest step of their pre-season campaign.

It has already been a busy summer for the Reds, who have brought in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, but also seen influential figures such as Jordan Henderson, Roberto Firmino and James Milner leave the club.

The Reds have recently seen an initial bid for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia rejected but are set to return with an improved offer. They have also been linked with making other signings, ahead of their Premier League opener with Chelsea on August 13.

The PSG forward is at the centre of another transfer saga this summer and it has been claimed that Liverpool have stepped up their interest in the France captain.

Mbappe, 24, apparently refused to speak with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, who submitted a world-record £259m bid, despite him having just 12 months remaining on his contract.

The Mirror has reported that Liverpool are ‘ready to offer’ Mbappe a one-year loan deal, which would see PSG receive a fee for the star striker, ahead of a potential move to Real Madrid next summer.

The defensive midfielder has emerged as a top target for the Reds, following the departure of Jordan Henderson and imminent exit for Fabinho.

The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season at Southampton, who are believed to value the Belgium international at £50m. Liverpool submitted an opening offer of around £38m, with the club preparing a revised bid.

Journalist Rudy Galetti has stated that the Reds are ‘speeding things up’ in terms of a move for Lavia. However, it is claimed that Chelsea are continuing to ‘monitor the situation’, though no talks are currently ongoing between Southampton and the west London club.

Chelsea are also reported to be targeting a move for another rumoured Liverpool target. Ajax forward Mohammed Kudus is claimed to be on the radar of several clubs.

The Ghana international played the majority of his games as a striker or winger last season, scoring 11 and assisting four goals, but has previously played in midfield and as a number 10.

Football.london has reported that Chelsea have sounded out a move for the 22-year-old.