LIVERPOOL are reportedly set to make an improved second offer for Romeo Lavia after they saw an initial £37 million bid rejected by Saints.

The 19 year old played the first 45 minutes of Southampton's 3-2 pre-season defeat against AFC Bournemouth at St Mary's on Tuesday night.

Following Saints' relegation to the Championship, the highly sought-after midfielder has drawn the interest of the Premier League's top clubs. 

Speaking to the Daily Echo after his side's friendly against Bournemouth, Southampton boss Russell Martin said he was happy that Lavia was able to get some minutes amid the speculation surrounding his future.

"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) 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."

The Athletic now report that negotiations between Liverpool and Saints are ongoing and there is an increasing likelihood of a deal being agreed.

Lavia joined from Manchester City just last summer and was previously the subject of a £50 million verbal proposal from Chelsea only a matter of weeks on from his arrival at St Mary’s.

Southampton are believed to be holding out for a similar figure in order to sell the Belgian midfielder this summer.