"It's ridiculous..." - Southampton manager breaks silence on Romeo Lavia after Liverpool bid

Southampton manager Russell Martin has expressed his frustration with the transfer window and the speculation surrounding Romeo Lavia's future.

Championship club Southampton have rejected an opening bid from Liverpool for Lavia, believed to be worth £37m.

Liverpool are expected to return with an improved offer for the 19-year-old midfielder, with The Athletic claiming there is a high likelihood that a deal can be reached.

Southampton are reported to be seeking £50m for the Belgian, who only joined the club from Manchester City last summer.

Chelsea are also said to have concrete interest in Lavia, while Arsenal have also been linked with the Belgium international.

Lavia was substituted at half-time in Tuesday's 3-2 pre-season defeat to Bournemouth after a mixed performance and it looks increasingly likely he will move on this summer.

Southampton boss Martin has admitted the midfielder has has 'a lot in his head' due to the speculation surrounding his future.

"The transfer window should close before the start of the season - it's ridiculous in my opinion and certainly not helpful," Martin said.

"We're a club that has been relegated and has a lot of talent that people are attracted to, but we'll prepare as if they will be here because we have to. There's no guarantee that anyone will leave, it's a lot of work with 27 players or whatever but we'll give everyone a chance to get on the pitch.

"I thought Romeo, considering what's going on, to play tonight and do all that stuff, it was good for him to get on the pitch as he has not had the minutes other people have had.

"You can ask for an update, but I can't give you one because I don't know. I'm going to speak to Jason [Wilcox, director of football] now but I've been preparing for this game. I'll only ever be honest with you guys but I’m yet to find out.

"Romeo has a lot in his head."

Martin added: "[I am] pleased with his attitude, easiest thing to do would be to not play tonight. Not easy for a young player to handle the noise, but he's handled it well. Latest news is very public, he may still be here he may not."