Chelsea’s bid for Romeo Lavia is expected to be rejected by Southampton.
Chelsea want to hijack Liverpool’s long pursuit of the teenage midfielder.
The Blues have made an offer of £48million for the Belgian – which surpasses Liverpool’s last bid of £45m.
Southampton are holding out for £50m for their 19-year-old midfielder.
This means Chelsea’s bid would be turned down, according to Sky Sports.
Southampton believe that Liverpool will return with a better offer that could meet their asking price.
Liverpool are now considering whether or not to pay the Saints asking price.