Chelsea have moved to outbid Liverpool for Romeo Lavia.

The Reds have failed with three offers for the Southampton midfielder - their latest being a structured deal rising to £46m.

Saints want £50m to sell and Chelsea have now made a superior proposal.

The Athletic's David Ornstein reports the Blues have offered £48m plus bonuses for Lavia, with negotiations now open.

Chelsea failed with a £50m offer a year ago just weeks after Saints had signed Lavia from Manchester City.