Liverpool may now prefer to recruit Khephren Thuram of OGC Nice over Romeo Lavia, as Southampton maintain their £50 million value of the 19-year-old.
The current bid, for £46 million, rejected by the Saints could be the final straw for the Reds, according to a recent source, with Liverpool rekindling their interest in Khephren Thuram.
The Northern Echo claimed in June that Nice value Thuram at £60 million, so unless Liverpool believe the Frenchman has a higher ceiling than Lavia, abandoning negotiations with Southampton after three weeks when they are so close to an agreement would be a curious move.
However, Thuram provides physicality where Lavia lacks while also ticking the same boxes that Liverpool will be looking for.
Should Thuram be signed by Liverpool?
Many Liverpool fans would be pleased if Liverpool signed Thuram as well as Lavia. Since Jordan Henderson and Fabinho left for the Saudi Pro League, there has been a significant vacuum in the no.6 position.
Both Lavia and Thuram fit Liverpool’s style of play, but if the Reds only acquire three defenders this summer after selling or releasing six since the start of last season, Jurgen Klopp will struggle to win silverware.
As it stands, Liverpool will compete in the Europa League rather than the Champions League. Failures from last summer must not be repeated this year.
