Despite Liverpool being strong contenders for the Premier League title, supporters have been growing uneasy due to ongoing uncertainty around key players Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah. ..Continue Reading
All three stars are set to become free agents this summer, and Alexander-Arnold seems increasingly likely to leave, with reports suggesting the England right-back could join Real Madrid on a free transfer.
There is, however, some optimism regarding Salah and Van Dijk. Reports indicate that Salah is close to agreeing a contract extension, while Van Dijk recently confirmed that negotiations are “progressing.”
Yet speculation around another key player has been reignited, following comments from his agent.
Ryan Gravenberch, who joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich for £34 million, had a quiet first season at Anfield.
But under Arne Slot’s guidance, the Dutch midfielder has found new life and become a key contributor in Liverpool’s push for their 20th league title.
The 21-year-old, whose current deal runs until 2028, is now a regular starter. However, his long-time agent Jose Fortes Rodriguez recently admitted that their agency “would love” to see him play for Real Madrid someday.
He did, however, acknowledge that such a move is “impossible” at present, largely due to the high transfer fee Liverpool would demand.
“When Ryan was 16, Barca called us,” he told MARCA.
“They wanted to sign him, but his father and I prioritized his development. He’s good enough for Real Madrid. We would love for him to play for them, but Liverpool would ask for a lot of money. I know they’ve had their eye on him, but now it’s impossible.”
Liverpool had been making a strong effort to land their primary midfield target, Martin Zubimendi, during the summer transfer window, but the Spanish international chose to remain at Real Sociedad.
As a result, Ryan Gravenberch was shifted into the defensive midfield role, where he quickly settled in and made the position his own. He’s become one of Liverpool’s most reliable players this season and has even stepped in at centre-back when needed.
In December, Gravenberch praised manager Arne Slot for helping him regain his confidence and rediscover his best form.
“Now I play a lot of games as a starter, so it’s a little bit different. The coach gave me confidence when I needed it and I’m happy that I can show myself again,” Gravenberch told TNT Sports.
“Just the run of games, you really need it to be honest,” he added.
“Sometimes it’s really hard. For example, if you’re on the bench and the next game you play good, the next game you’re on the bench, then you come in for 10 minutes, then the 10 minutes are not really going how you want it.
“Then the next game you’re on the bench again, so that’s difficult.
“So yeah, just the run of games – that gives you the confidence if you’re doing good on the pitch.”
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