Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given the green light to sign Romeo Lavia as Liverpool risk losing out on a player they have chased all summer.

The Belgian is a highly talented, highly sought-after midfielder but unless the Reds ramp up their interest they may lose out.

Progress on a deal to sign the 19-year-old has stalled over Southampton’s £50M valuation but with Arsenal entering the fray after signing Declan Rice, there will be more pressure to get a deal done.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool’s top priority is to sign Lavia although there is yet to be further progress on talks with the South Coast outfit.

Arsenal preparing Romeo Lavia move

According to Football Insider, the Gunners are preparing a fresh move for the central midfielder as Thomas Partey edges closer to a move to Saudi Arabia to join an “unnamed club”.

While Lavia prefers a move to Anfield, the young talent can do little to speed up Liverpool’s approach. Chelsea are also interested and both the Blues and Arsenal can take advantage of the fact the Reds value Lavia at £40M.

Southampton are eager to capitalise on the interest of three of the Premier League’s biggest clubs.

Manchester City are due 20% of any fee the Saints procure for Lavia so it’s clear to see why they are happy to encourage a bidding war for the 19-year-old.

Jurgen Klopp and his players are in Germany for the next phase of their pre-season camp. Meanwhile, talks are underway for new signings as well as player sales.

Jordan Henderson and Fabinho are poised to swap the Premier League for the Saudi Pro League while Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have joined Liverpool.

The next few weeks will be key as the start of the new Premier League season edges closer with Liverpool set to face Chelsea in the opening game of the campaign on August 13.