Journalist: Liverpool Targeted Gravenberch Long Before Bayern Munich Stepped In | OneFootball

Ryan Gravenberch: The Rising Star of Liverpool’s Midfield

Liverpool’s start to the Premier League season has been filled with optimism, and a large part of that is thanks to new signing Ryan Gravenberch. In a recent Media Matters podcast by Anfield Index, Jonathan Northcroft, the esteemed Sunday Times football correspondent, spoke about Gravenberch’s impact on Liverpool’s squad. Reflecting on his earlier work from The Times, Northcroft shared insights on how Liverpool identified Gravenberch as a key target, and why he is flourishing at Anfield this season.

Photo: IMAGO

Longstanding Target For Liverpool

According to Northcroft, Liverpool’s interest in Gravenberch stretches back to before his move to Bayern Munich. Northcroft recalled a piece he wrote in The Times when Liverpool first attempted to secure the Dutchman’s signature. “Liverpool were interested in Ryan Gravenberch long before Bayern Munich made their move. I remember writing about how Klopp’s team had already met with his family,” said Northcroft, reflecting on how close the Reds came to securing him earlier.

Gravenberch was identified as one of the most talented young midfielders in Europe, and while Bayern Munich initially swooped in, Liverpool’s interest never waned. Northcroft shared how Gravenberch’s name kept resurfacing within Liverpool’s transfer discussions, and the persistence finally paid off in the summer of 2023. “Liverpool knew what they were getting, and now we’re beginning to see why they pursued him so persistently,” he added.

An Opportunistic Signing

During the podcast, Northcroft emphasized that Liverpool’s move for Gravenberch was not only planned but also opportunistic. When Bayern Munich seemed uncertain about Gravenberch’s future, Liverpool moved swiftly. “Liverpool’s summer window was all about being opportunistic. When Bayern became willing to negotiate, they struck. And that’s a credit to their long-term planning,” Northcroft noted.

He explained that despite the wealth of midfield talent at Liverpool, including established players like Alexis Mac Allister, Gravenberch has managed to carve out a significant role for himself. “Gravenberch has come in and shouldered a huge responsibility in midfield,” Northcroft remarked, highlighting the young player’s adaptability and versatility. His ability to fit into various roles within the midfield has given Liverpool a new dimension.

Gravenberch’s Early Impact

Gravenberch has started the Premier League season in fine form, and Northcroft did not hesitate to shower him with praise. “He has been sensational in these first few games. You can already see why he was so highly regarded across Europe,” said Northcroft. The Dutch midfielder’s combination of physicality, technical ability, and tactical awareness has been evident in Liverpool’s early performances.

One of the key attributes Northcroft highlighted was Gravenberch’s ability to thrive in a deeper role. “Gravenberch is showing that he can be a specialist in the number six role under Arne Slot. His performances so far have been impressive, and he’s proving himself as a vital cog in Liverpool’s midfield engine,” he commented.

Player For The Future

While Gravenberch’s early performances have been promising, Northcroft was keen to stress that this is just the beginning. Drawing from his earlier reporting, he described Gravenberch as a player with immense potential. “When I first wrote about him for The Times, I saw a player who had everything – the technical skills, the physical presence, and the right mindset. What we’re seeing now at Liverpool is a player starting to unlock that potential.”

Gravenberch’s versatility means he can slot into multiple positions in midfield, giving Liverpool tactical flexibility. “Whether it’s as a deep-lying playmaker or a more advanced midfielder, Gravenberch is showing he can do it all,” Northcroft observed. His ability to transition smoothly between different roles is part of what makes him such a valuable asset for Liverpool’s future.

Bright Future at Anfield

As Liverpool’s season progresses, Ryan Gravenberch will undoubtedly continue to grow in importance. His early impact has shown that he is more than capable of rising to the challenge of playing for one of England’s biggest clubs. Northcroft summed it up well: “He’s got the talent, the mentality, and now, under the guidance of Arne Slot, he’s got the platform to become one of Liverpool’s most important players for years to come.”

With Gravenberch flourishing under Slot and quickly becoming a key figure in the squad, Liverpool’s midfield looks well-equipped to challenge for major honors this season and beyond. Gravenberch’s story at Liverpool is only just beginning, but the signs are clear—he’s a star in the making.