Man Utd planning to 'hijack' Liverpool's move for Romeo Lavia as 'foreign club' enter the race

Manchester United could hijack Liverpool's move for Romeo Lavia, it has been claimed.

Lavia, 19, has been heavily linked with a move away from Southampton after an impressive season on the south coast, despite the club's relegation to the Championship.

Liverpool had an initial £37 million bid rejected by the Saints last Tuesday, with Southampton demanding £50 million for the Belgian, report The Times.

The Reds are widely expected to return with an improved offer, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano tweeting on Monday morning: "Liverpool second bid for Roméo Lavia, in the region of £45m package and ready since last week — to be sent soon."

However, Premier League rivals Manchester United have since arrived on the scene and could hijack Liverpool's move for the teenager.

That's according to the Daily Mail, who claim that United and an unnamed foreign club have entered the race to sign Lavia this summer, adding that Chelsea maintain their interest.

Erik ten Hag has already signed Mason Mount and Andre Onana for a combined £107 million this summer. While United have reportedly reached an agreement with Atalanta for Rasmus Hojlund worth €70 million.

As a result, the Red Devils would need to recoup some money through player sales, with both Fred and Donny van de Beek expected to leave the club this summer.

In addition, United have also been linked with a move for Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, with the Old Trafford outfit allegedly preparing a bid for the 26-year-old.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have money to burn after a number of first-team departures this summer, including Jordan Henderson's move to the Saudi Pro League.