Liverpool target Romeo Lavia has been left out of the Southampton squad to face Gillingham in the Carabao Cup first round.
The Saints have rejected three Liverpool bids for the 19-year-old Belgian, most recent offer in the region of £46m, as Russell Martin’s side stands firm on their £50m valuation.
Negotiations are ongoing between the two clubs, Jurgen Klopp has been forced to act on the recent departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. Initially, a £34m bid plus £4m in add-ons was rejected, before a second offer of £42m was rebuffed.
Reports emerged on Monday that the former Anderlecht and Manchester City prospect would not be travelling to the Priestfield Stadium.
