August 31, 2023Jack LusbyWith Ryan Gravenberch expected to become Liverpool’s latest summer signing, the Dutchman will bring “a really interesting skill set” to Anfield.
Liverpool are in talks with Bayern Munich over a late switch from Gravenberch, a player they have followed since his breakthrough at Ajax.
Having received indications that the midfielder would arrive earlier this year, the Reds offered their time while Thomas Tuchel weighed up his decision.
Now Gravenberch is on the verge of leaving the Allianz Arena and, despite competition from Manchester United, Liverpool are seen as favorites in a deal that could go as high as £25.8m.
The 21-year-old has struggled to settle at Bayern after joining from Ajax a year ago, but Bundesliga commentator Kevin Hatchard believes there is “definitely something” at Gravenberch.
“There are a lot of players who are doing well in the Eredivisie and are good for Ajax, but they don’t necessarily make that leap,” Hatchard told This Is Anfield.“But I think there’s still a sense that he has some really cool skills.“He’s very good at dodging the press, he’s very good at making his way through challenges, he can score spectacular goals – we know that.“So there is definitely something in it.
He’s also very young, so there’s no need to rush to judgment on him.”As Hatchard explains, Gravenberch only turned 21 in May, so there’s no reason to rule him out after a tough season in Bavaria. “Look at Bayern, he’s been involved in almost every game, but he’s barely been in the starting lineup,” he continued.“This is understandable, because it is one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
If you look at their team, you have Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka, there’s a lot of depth in midfield.”So I don’t think it was realistic for him to become a regular player after the move from Ajax.
“Gravenberch started just six out of 33 games for Bayern last season, and this season he only made a nine-minute cameo out of a possible three games.It is clear he is getting off to a flying start under Tuchel, but with Liverpool considering a move, his untapped potential could look like a bargain.
