Liverpool target Romeo Lavia ‘disinterested’ playing friendly after bid rejected

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    Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia's performance in a friendly match against Bournemouth has sparked concerns after Liverpool's transfer bid for the player was rejected.

    Lavia, who is on Liverpool's transfer wishlist, failed to impress during the game and was substituted off at half time.

    Liverpool made an initial offer of £37million for Lavia, but Southampton, despite their relegation to the Championship, turned down the bid and set a £50million price tag on the talented midfielder. Southampton are in a strong financial position and aren't under massive pressure to sell players at discounted prices.

    The Saints' lost their pre-season clash against south-coast rivals Bournemouth 3-2, and while Lavia started the game, he struggled to make an impact. Sky Sports broadcaster James Green, who was present at the match, described Lavia as "disinterested" during the first half, noting that he seemed like a player who wanted to move away, reports the Mirror.

    READ MORE: Jordan Henderson spotted saying goodbye to Liverpool in 'leaked' video before Saudi move

    Journalist Jack Rosser also criticised Lavia's performance, stating that he was "coasting" during the game. Liverpool's interest in Lavia has grown as they prepare for the potential departures of captain Jordan Henderson and holding midfielder Fabinho.

    The club has already seen several players leave as free agents this summer, including James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Roberto Firmino. With the possible moves of Henderson and Fabinho to Saudi Arabia, Liverpool are eager to secure Lavia's services.

    Do you think Liverpool will get their man, and how much will they have to pay? Let us know in the comments section.

    Although Bournemouth emerged as 3-2 victors in the friendly, the focus was on Lavia's lacklustre display in the first half.

    Despite goals from Dango Ouattara and Ryan Christie giving Bournemouth a two-goal lead at half-time, Southampton's Shea Charles and Stuart Armstrong managed to level the score but David Brooks secured the win for Bournemouth late in the game.

    The Saints are expected to busy in the transfer market ahead of the Championship season getting underway in less than a fortnight. An improved offer is anticipated from Liverpool for Lavia with talks ongoing, while West Ham are in positive discussions over a deal for fellow star midfielder James Ward-Prowse.

    Southampton next play on Saturday at home to AZ Alkmaar, while Liverpool face Leicester on Sunday morning.

    This article was crafted with the help of AI tools, which speed up Dailystar.co.uk ' s editorial research. A content editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors to [email protected] .

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