Sunderland first-team player linked with MLS switch and Gareth Ainsworth link up

The latest transfer news and gossip from around the web sees a another senior Sunderland first-team players linked with the exit door

Sunderland first-team player Lynden Gooch has been linked with a move to Major League Soccer – and with Championship rivals Queens Park Rangers.

Lynden Gooch, Sunderland's young US star: 'I knew I was good enough' | Sunderland | The Guardian

The American is entering the last year of his contract this season with senior professionals Danny Batth and Alex Pritchard also coming into the final 12 months of their respective deals.

That has prompted some speculation that the trio could be allowed to leave Sunderland with Batth in particular heavily linked with an exit during the summer window.

Now, football journalist Alan Nixon has stated that Gooch is attracting interest from the MLS and from QPR, who are managed by Gareth Ainsworth and have also been linked with a swoop for Batth.

Sunderland star Lynden Gooch on why he starts seasons so well and adapting to fatherhood - Chronicle Live

Gooch missed Sunderland’s games against Crewe Alexandra in the Carabao Cup and Preston North End in the Championship after picking up an injury but is expected to be available for selection against Rotherham United next Saturday.

Liverpool have personal agreement in place with target despite £55 million rival offer

Liverpool are reportedly keen on signing Romeo Lavia from Southampton and they continue to pursue the midfielder despite strong interest from Chelsea.

A report from Football Insider claims that Liverpool have a personal agreement in place with the 19-year-old defensive midfielder and it remains to be seen whether they can secure an agreement with Southampton now.

Apparently, Liverpool have offered up to £48 million for the Belgian midfielder. But Chelsea have offered a package of around £55 million. It is evident that the Blues are currently in the lead to sign the player.

Chelsea need to bring in midfield reinforcements after the departure of N’Golo Kanté and Mateo Kovačić. The 19-year-old could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition and he would add some much-needed defensive cover in front of the Chelsea defensive unit.

Similarly, Liverpool sanctioned the departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho earlier this summer, and they will have to bring in a quality, defensive midfielder.

espite Southampton’s relegation last season, the 19-year-old impressed with his showing in the top flight and it is no surprise that Chelsea and Liverpool are hoping to sign him.

Lavia is still quite young and is likely to improve with coaching and experience. Working under managers like Mauricio Pochettino or Jurgen Klopp could help him improve further and fulfil his world-class potential.

The two clubs are reportedly competing for the signature of Moises Caicedo as well. It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs ends up signing both midfielders this summer.