Chelsea handed fresh boost ahead of Liverpool opener with Reds set to suffer double transfer blow

Chelsea are closing in on the sensational signing of highly-rated Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia after biding £55million for the player on Friday night.

The Blues are also facing a battle with Sunday’s opponents for the signing of Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo as they look to seal the double signing of two of the best-holding midfielders in the land.

Liverpool had been front runners for the midfielder Lavia and made three offers for the 19-year-old but have had no luck with Chelsea now leading the way to sign the Belgian.

In the same spirit, Liverpool have moved ahead of Chelsea to agree a fee with Brighton and Hove Albion for the signing of Moises Caicedo even though the player has communicated to the Reds he would prefer a move to Pochettino’s team, having agreed to personal terms with them all summer.

Chelsea are also not giving up on Caicedo with sources saying they are willing to match Liverpool’s stunning offer that should see them hijack the midfielder as he’s been their prime summer target and losing him to their direct rival will be seen as a massive blow to their transfer dealings.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino refused to comment on Chelsea’s interest in Caicedo saying, for him, it was about respecting others.

“If you know me you'll know I don't comment on players who are not ours but we are trying to add to their squad and that is what I can say at the moment.”

Chelsea will hope positive pre-season preparations in the United States will yield a brilliant campaign starting with a home win against Jurgen Klopp’s side.