Liverpool in talks to beat Manchester United to midfielder

August 30, 2023 at 6:47 pm GMT+1

Liverpool are in advanced talks with Bayern Munich over a move for young midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who has been vocal in his desire for increased football this season.

Jurgen Klopp’s side have undergone a major midfield rebuild this summer but are still in the market to add another addition before Friday’s transfer deadline, with Gravenberch their no.1 target.

As per the Athletic, ‘the situation developed significantly on Wednesday’ and ‘if Liverpool believe the finances are achievable, they are expected to submit a formal offer for the 21-year-old Netherlands international shortly’.

The Dutch midfielder, who worked with Ten Hag at Ajax, is also thought to prefer a move to Liverpool over Manchester United if given the choice, with the Red Devils one of those also interested in his signature.

Netherlands player Ryan Gravenberch (Photo by Pro Shots/Sipa USA) (Alamy Stock Photo)

A deal may not be easy though, with ‘any potential sale... contingent on them recruiting a replacement’ amid links this week to Premier League pair Scott McTominay and Joao Palhinha from Fulham.

The midfielder is thought to want out, having been a substitute on one occasion so far this season and otherwise having been left on the bench, while he managed just three league starts last season.

“Training and playing at the top level for a year is beautiful and instructive. I say playing, but it’s mainly training. That has to change next season, then I really want to play weekly again. I haven’t spoken to the club management yet, so just wait and see what happens. But it’s clear that this role does not match my expectations”, he explained back in April.

With Bayern having since signed Konrad Laimer on a free transfer, he has slipped further down the pecking order and is expected to depart if his valuation is met.