Liverpool could ruin Manchester United’s chances of signing Ryan Gravenberch after reportedly holding talks with the player’s father. The Reds are said to be stepping up their interest in the Dutch midfielder just days after other reports suggested that Erik ten Hag was keen on a reunion with his former Ajax talent.
Gravenberch was considered one of the most promising young midfielders in world football during his time at Ajax but his move to Bayern Munich has not gone as he would have hoped. The 20-year-old has made just four starts in all competitions in his first season in the Bundesliga and reports now suggest he could be moved on.
Earlier this week, reports stated that United were among the clubs interested in his signature but now the Times states that Liverpool could have gained the upper hand after holding talks with the player’s father last week. He is said to feature prominently on Jurgen Klopp’s list of targets as he looks to improve his side’s midfield options.
The report states that the Dutchman could be available for as little as £25million making him a potential bargain for any suitors. Liverpool have been tracking his progress for some time and he could now become an option after they were priced out of the race for Jude Bellingham.
Gravenberch is somewhat similar to the sought-after England international, possessing the versatility to play as a No 6, 8 and 10. It is in the latter two positions that he may have the most value to Liverpool with the Reds desperately struggling in central midfield.
Jordan Henderson and Fabinho have failed to reach their usual standards this season as they start to show signs of ageing while Thiago has endured an injury-hit campaign.
Bellingham was widely touted to be the man Liverpool would look to as they tried to address their midfield issues but the club conceded defeat in the race for his signature this week as he was simply too expensive.
Klopp discussed the development when asked by reporters ahead of his side’s clash with Leeds on Monday, suggesting signing Bellingham would restrict other important moves that the club needed to make.
“We cannot have six players in a summer, everyone for £100m,” he said.”You look what you can do, and you work with that. What we need and what we want, we try absolutely everything to get it, but there are moments when you have to accept that this or that is not possible for us – you step aside and do different stuff.”
It remains to be seen whether or not Gravenberch will end up making the move to Liverpool but it appears the Merseysiders have stolen a march on their north-west rivals.
