Chelsea is on the verge of completing a £55 million deal with Southampton for midfielder Romeo Lavia, according to the UK Sun.

Liverpool is also interested in the 19-year-old, with the Reds having had three bids rejected for the emerging star.

The Saints have refused to budge on their £50 million price tag and are looking at agreeing on a move with Chelsea.

It is understood the Blues submitted an offer above Southampton’s valuation.

Both Chelsea and Liverpool are attempting to overhaul their midfields and are locked in a transfer war for Brighton’s Moises Caicedo.

The Blues’ £111 million pursuit of Caicedo is viewed as independent and won’t be hampered by dealings with Brighton for the Ecuadorian.

A £55 million deal would see Southampton cash in on Lavia, who is keen to secure an immediate transfer back to the Premier League after being relegated last season.