19 August 2023 , 15:35
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Ryan Gravenberch was tipped for big things when he was the new, hot property off of the Ajax production line.
A number of the continent's biggest clubs were thought to be keen on a move for the promising Dutch midfielder, but it was Bayern Munich who won the race for his signature. Just over a year on from his move to the Bundesliga behemoths, Gravenberch may be regretting that decision as speculation regarding his club future continues to linger.
While statistics will show that Gravenberch technically made 24 league appearances last term, he failed to complete 90 minutes even just once. In fact, the longest stint he got on the pitch in any single league game was 71 minutes against FC Koln on the final day of the season.
As a result, rumours are now rife that the 21-year-old is considering his options and could be tempted into calling time on his Bayern career 13 months in. If he does, there are certainly still some big clubs waiting in the wings to secure his services.
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Few of Europe's biggest sides clearly need to strengthen an area quite like Liverpool need to with their midfield. Therefore, reports touting the Reds with a move for Gravenberch aren't exactly surprising.
According to Foot Mercato, Liverpool are once again pursuing the highly rated midfield maestro much like they did when Gravenberch made clear he'd be leaving Ajax last year. Ex-Stuttgart captain Wataru Endo has already seen his Anfield switch confirmed, but it is highly likely that Jurgen Klopp aims to bring in another midfield before the window closes on September 1.
Liverpool are interested in Ryan Gravenberch (Harry Langer/Getty Images)Liverpool have had to deal with the damage of being snubbed by both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia this summer, which means if they were to try and fail in their pursuit of Gravenberch, it would be another transfer embarrassment.
Reds fans may wish to look away now before reading this latest update...
Transfer plan and Prem preference
Having fallen down the pecking order at the Allianz Arena, Gravenberch has been forced to explore the idea of plying his trade elsewhere and is believed to favour a move to Manchester United over Liverpool if he were to join a Premier League side.
Ryan Gravenberch has dealt a blow to Liverpool's summer transfer hopes with his fondness for Man Utd ((Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images))This is despite the fact that back in April The Mirror revealed that the Reds had struck an agreement with Gravenberch over personal terms ahead of a proposed summer transfer after private talks with the player's representatives.
It would appear that the prospect of reuniting with former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag is a tempting one in the eyes of Gravenberch. United are believed to be aware of the player's preference, but given the money spent on new additions already this summer, would have to muster up the funds for the Dutchman by cashing in on members of their current crop.
Tuchel's tactics
Thomas Tuchel's comments have seemingly irked Ryan GravenberchWhoever wishes to pry Gravenberch away from Munich may have seen their odds increase amid rumours of a fall-out with manager Thomas Tuchel regarding the midfielder's role next term.
While Bayern maintain he is not for sale, Gravenberch could seriously push for the Allianz exit door if he does not get the reassurances he is after when it comes to playing time. German outlet Abend Zeitung have claimed Tuchel's recent remarks surrounding the 21-year-old's standing at the club have annoyed the ex-Ajax talent.
"He only came off the bench in the friendlies and that's his role at the moment," Tuchel told reporters.
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The comments hardly read as if the Bayern boss is particularly desperate to keep hold of Gravenberch and despite the club's line over his potential sale, other outlets have claimed he could be up for grabs for around £22million.