Arsenal have just put pressure on Liverpool to speed up Romeo Lavia transfer bid

 Arsenal have put pressure on Liverpool to speed up their move for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia. The Gunners could step up their own interest in the player following developments on Thomas Partey's future

Lavia impressed in his first season at Southampton after joining from Manchester City last summer. He was a shining light in an otherwise dismal campaign for Saints, who were relegated to the Championship after finishing rock bottom.

The 19-year-old's performances have seen him linked with a move to a host of top clubs. Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and former club City are all admirers of the Belgian.

Arsenal have just signed Declan Rice for a club-record fee of £105million. Chelsea, meanwhile, are hoping to secure a deal for Brighton star Moises Caicedo.

Liverpool have already brought in two midfielders this summer, signing Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. However, Fabinho looks set to move to the Saudi Pro League, while captain Jordan Henderson could follow him through the exit door

However, if they are not quick, they could face strong competition from a rival. Arsenal, at the moment, don't need to sign another player of Lavia's ilk.

But reports from Saudi Arabia claim Partey has agreed personal terms with an unnamed club in the Saudi Pro League. A fee is yet to be finalised and Arsenal may be reluctant to sell.