Exit-linked Liverpool star could solve Arne Slot's midfield headache

Ryan Gravenberch could be Liverpool FC’s answer to a new number six

It is no secret that Liverpool need a number six this summer, given that Japanese star Wataru Endo is the lone senior star in the role. According to The Independent, it is a position that the Reds are considering as we enter the final few weeks of the 2024 summer window.

However, the 3-0 win over Manchester United in the pre-season friendly in the United States showcased that the Reds could look internally to solve the issue. Arne Slot deployed a double pivot of Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch for the game, and both players shone in their respective roles.

Jones got on the scoresheet, while Gravenberch’s tactical awareness and willingness to put his foot in were evident. The Dutchman won the ball back several times and also showcased his impressive off-the-ball movement. He clearly has an aptitude for the role and his re-invention as a deep-lying playmaker could be on the cards.

Ryan Gravenberch could be Liverpool FC's answer to a new number six.

Fresh off a Euro 2024 campaign where he did not play as much as he would have liked, Gravenberch is now back at Anfield in the hopes of building upon a promising debut campaign in Red. Once considered to be among the best young players in football, the Dutchman still has time on his side to make good use of that potential.

It might still be pre-season but Gravenberch looked sharp and more than put on a show against his Manchester United counterparts. Erik ten Hag will be familiar with the player’s qualities given his time at Ajax Amsterdam, but it would appear that Slot could be the man to unlock that potential.

Liverpool’s options in the deep midfield role.

Deploying Gravenberch alongside Endo is another option against sides that have stronger attackers. The former can serve as a deep-lying playmaker, bursting forward when needed while the latter can play the role of the midfield destroyer. Given Slot’s style of playing, having a player such as Gravenberch ping passes around could open new avenues in the attack.

Having rested up after the Euro 2024 campaign, Gravenberch admitted that he is thrilled to be back and is raring to go. Given what we saw of him last night, that certainly appears to be the case.

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It is still early days, but if the 22-year-old could be set for a major breakout campaign, that could elevate his standing in the hierarchy today. Gravenberch is certainly a player to watch out for next season and Slot appears to be the man to help him do that. What do you think?