Jurgen Klopp’s friend may explain Romeo Lafia’s interest from Liverpool

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Liverpool are being linked with a Romeo Lafia transfer.

ECHO previously reported that the 19-year-old is an important player for the Reds as they look to bolster their midfield this summer. And with Dominic Zuboszlai now confirmed as a Liverpool player, reports suggest their interest has returned to Lavia.

Southampton will be led by former Swansea City manager Russell Martin next season as they prepare for their first championship campaign since 2012, after being relegated from the Premier League. Martin became the fourth manager to take charge of the Saints since November after Ralph Hessenhuttl, Nathan Jones and Robin Seals lost their jobs.

It was Hasenhuttl – a friend of the Liverpool Klopp boss – who got Lafia away from the youth ranks at Manchester City last summer. The Belgium international continued to enjoy a stellar debut season in the English top flight despite Southampton finishing last.

Read more: The inside story of Szoboszlai’s deal as Mount’s decision sent Liverpool moving quickly

Read more: Jamie Carragher has already told Klopp about his next signing after Dominic Szoboszlay

But questions remain now as to whether they will be able to keep their prized assets as Lavia and captain James Ward-Prowse. Liverpool faces competition from Arsenal in the race to sign Lafia. Chelsea and Manchester United are also said to be interested.

After his arrival for £10.5m from Citizens, Hasenotl admired Lafia’s qualities and looked to turn the youngster into a “first-class” player.

“We know his qualities, but we try to be positive with him, but we are also important because we want to make him a first-class player,” he said.

“It’s important for these players not only to get immediate praise for their good or good performance, but also to be decisive about the things he has to do better.

“What I love about these young lads is that they seem so self-critical and want to learn, and want to get input all the time. I think that’s a very good character, I think it gets better, because when you think you’re the star it’s hard to make it better.”

Theo Walcott was a teammate of Lafia during his debut season at St Mary’s. The former Everton striker made it clear what distinguishes the Belgian player.

“I’m a big fan [of Lavia]Walcott told talkSPORT in January. Obviously he had some injuries but he’s back. He’s young, he’s 18/19 when he’s off the field but when he’s on the field he’s crazy.

“It’s like he’s played over 200 games in the Premier League, that’s what I appreciate. It’s very interesting to see him, to watch him from the stands, obviously he looks so easy from the stands, he always is.

“You probably know that watching us, ‘He must run or pass,’ isn’t quite that simple, but when I watch him, I’m like, ‘You look above your age now.'”

“It’s a good sign and hopefully we’ll keep him fit. They’re all learning, but in particular he’s learning faster than usual I can tell.”

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