Romeo Lavia looks to be heading for a swift return to the Premier League. 

Just weeks after being relegated with Southampton, the defensive midfielder is being heavily linked with a move to Liverpool. 

Yet the Reds may face competition, with both Chelsea and Manchester United reported to also be in the running to sign the Belgian. 

Ahead of the new season, we take a look at where Lavia is likely to be playing next season and the qualities that have made him a wanted man. 

Liverpool problem

It has been claimed that Liverpool have made two unsuccessful bids to sign Lavia, with Southampton holding firm with their £50million valuation. 

Despite being relegated, the Saints are in a strong bargaining position thanks to interest from other clubs and Jurgen Klopp's side being desperate for midfield reinforcements. 

James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita all departed on free transfers this summer, while Jordan Henderson and Fabinho have been sold. 

The signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have boosted Klopp's options, but 18-year-old Stefan Bajcetic is the only specialist holding midfielder currently available to the manager. 

Curtis Jones has been used in that position this summer and the Liverpool boss has spoken about the need for a solution. 

He said: "I think it is no secret that we are still looking for players to join us. 

"Curtis can absolutely play that position. Can he play it when nobody else is defending in the team? No chance. 

"A proven No6 is not available at the moment." 

Saints star

Lavia could be the solution to that problem for Klopp, though it would be a stretch to describe him as proven quite yet. 

The 19-year-old started his professional career at Manchester City, where he made two appearances in 2021-22 before moving to Southampton last summer. 

He played 34 times last season and stood out as a star performer in the relegated Saints side. 

The 5ft 11in midfielder showed that he was adept at receiving the ball in tight areas, resisting any press and recycling possession with his impressive passing range. 

Lavia also displayed strong defensive qualities, ranking highly for tackles and ball recoveries.

It is a big ask for a player so young to anchor the midfield of a team looking to compete for trophies. 

Yet if Lavia proves to be up to the task, any side that buys him will have filled a key role for years to come. 

Lavia interest

Liverpool cannot afford to take too long to secure a deal for Lavia, considering that there is interest from other teams. 

Shortly after joining Southampton last season, Chelsea had a bid turned down for the anchorman. 

The Londoners are currently focused on signing Brighton's defensive midfielder Moises Caicedo. Should they fail in their pursuit, then they could well turn their attention to Lavia.

Another interested club are Manchester United. The Red Devils are looking for a solid presence that could play either alongside, or as an alternative to Casemiro. 

Liverpool hold an advantage over these rivals as they can offer Lavia both European football and a clear path to their first team. 

The youngster has agreed personal terms over a move to Anfield and now it is just a matter of the Reds securing a deal with Southampton.