Liverpool could be set to make a move for one of Europe’s most promising teenagers this summer, with Ajax’s Ryan Gravenberch being linked with a move to Anfield.
According to The Daily Express, the Reds hold an interest in the 18-year-old and could look to sign him as a replacement for the potentially outgoing Georginio Wijnaldum, with the Dutch midfielder continuing to run his deal on Merseyside down and being linked with a move to Barcelona.
Would Gravenberch be a good Wijnaldum replacement?
Yes, he’s perfect.
No, they should stick with Gini.
Away from being compatriots, there are many more reasons as to why Gravenberch could be his ready-made successor.
Since breaking through into the Ajax first-team last season, the youngster has gone on to make 51 appearances for the Dutch giants, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists.
It is no surprise then to know that Gravenberch is already a fully-fledged Dutch international having made three appearances for his national side, his debut only coming in March of 2021.
When comparing both Gravenberch and Wijanldum’s performances throughout the campaign, they are remarkably similar, with the youngster surprisingly edging ahead of his compatriot.
According to WhoScored, the Ajax midfielder has contributed 1.6 shots, 1.2 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per game in the Eredivisie this season. Meanwhile, Wijnaldum can only contribute 0.8, 0.6 and 0.9 respectively.
Gravenberch is also far more impressive from a defensive standpoint too. He contributes 1.2 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per 90 minutes for Ajax, whilst the current Reds’ midfielder only accumulates 0.7 for each in the Premier League.
Those box-to-box performances from the youngster have not only seen him compared to the current Reds’ midfielder but have also drawn comparisons to former Real Madrid star Zinedine Zidane from another legendary midfielder, Frank Rijkaard.
Rated at just £25.2m at the current time, that valuation is only sure to increase as Gravenberch realises his immense potential and promise.
FSG have to move now if they want to secure him as Wijnaldum’s Anfield replacement.
AND in more news, find out which midfield maestro the Reds must cut their losses on this summer…