Liverpool and Aston Villa are tracking FSV Mainz 05 forward Brajan Gruda
FSV Mainz 05 forward Brajan Gruda is a transfer target for Liverpool and several other European clubs during the summer. The 20-year-old impressed for Mainz as an attacking outlet despite their struggle to survive the relegation drop in the Bundesliga.
Liverpool are planning to bolster their attacking department with fresh faces who can compete with the current options next season. The Reds suffered a drastic dip in form last season that cost them major titles, lacking sufficient competitive squad depth.
The injury crisis combined with unreliable form from the attacking players is something they cannot afford to risk next season. An attacking addition would also allow the Reds to conduct a swift transition for ageing legendary players like Mohamed Salah.
![Liverpool and Aston Villa are tracking FSV Mainz 05 forward Brajan Gruda.](https://thekoptimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Kop-Times-1-2-3-1200x675.jpg)
German outlet BILD (via TribalFootball) reported that Liverpool and Aston Villa want Mainz youngster Gruda during the summer transfer window. Bundesliga champion Bayer Leverkusen also monitors the 20-year-old as Xabi Alonso seeks to continue his impressive success.
Player analysis: Brajan Gruda
Standing at 1.78 metres, Gruda has the athletic ability and good strength to compete in both aerial and ground duels. The Germany U21 has the versatility to play as a right-winger, attacking midfielder and central forward according to the requirement.
The 20-year-old prefers a direct attacking style of play, ensuring regular progressive passes and progressive carries for his German team. Gruda has impressive dribbling skills and close control to beat his defenders and make threatening runs into the critical spaces.
The young German puts a good shift in the attacking line when his team is not in possession, pressing opponents hard. The 20-year-old is still raw in his talent and needs more game experience to establish himself as a consistent threat. His potential is clear for all to see with none other than the legendary Thomas Muller providing a ringing endorsement.
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Gruda has earned a lot of respect from his peers despite his young age and it should cost a decent amount. However, Liverpool have numerous options from the academy and within the squad who have earned the right to play ahead of any potentially incoming competition.