Chelsea & Liverpool in HUGE transfer battle ahead of Premier League clash

James Shearman

• Updated: 10 Aug 2023 19:49 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea and Liverpool are in a fierce transfer battle ahead of their Premier League clash on Sunday.

Both clubs are in desperate need of a defensive midfielder, with two options at the top of their shortlists.

First, Brighton's Moises Caicedo looks like he will be moving to either Stamford Bridge or Anfield in the coming days for a near £100 million fee.

HIJACK: Liverpool look to swoop in on Caicedo

Caicedo, who excelled last season as Brighton finished 6th in the league, is seen as the best 'number six' on the market.

Second, Southampton's wonderkid Romeo Lavia is also wanted by the two clubs who face off this weekend.

The 19-year-old, who left Manchester City's academy to join the Saints last summer, is going to cost around £50m.

Chelsea vs Liverpool

It would come as a huge surprise if either club were to land Caicedo and

Lavia this summer.

Although Liverpool are in need of at least two midfield reinforcements, having sold the likes of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, signing the pair would surely be too costly.

While Chelsea don't need both, as they are on the verge of completing a deal for United States international Tyler Adams.

The most likely scenario is whichever team loses out on Caicedo then gets Lavia as an excellent alternative.

So, where will the Ecuador international be playing his football in the 2023-24 season?

Well, he reportedly prefers a move to Chelsea, despite their lack of European football.

And, he would fit perfectly alongside World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez in the centre of the pitch.

Expect Chelsea's ambitious owners to get a deal for the 21-year-old over the line soon, leaving Lavia to Liverpool.