Following Jurgen Klopp`s midfield overhaul in 2023, which brought Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo to the team, Liverpool has not yet signed any midfielders this summer.
A key characteristic of FSG`s tenure has been strategic transfer planning. Liverpool has a good track record, making smart acquisitions and moving on players whose form has declined.
Despite expectations of significant spending last summer after Klopp`s departure announcement, Liverpool`s only major signing was Federico Chiesa for a reduced £12.5 million fee, as he was entering the last year of his Juventus contract.
Liverpool opted against widespread expectations and seemed content with their existing squad, although they did attempt to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad but couldn`t persuade the Spanish player to leave the Basque region.
Why Liverpool Sought Martin Zubimendi
The departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabia for a combined £52 million necessitated Liverpool strengthening their midfield options.
Although they missed out on high-profile signings like Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who joined Chelsea, Liverpool likely doesn`t regret these misses now.
Mac Allister and Endo performed admirably, but a year later, a dedicated defensive midfielder (“number six”) became a clear requirement for Slot`s tactical approach, and Zubimendi was considered a suitable candidate.
However, Zubimendi (26) turned down Liverpool`s approach, and his anticipated move to Arsenal was disappointing. Yet, this setback was significantly offset by Ryan Gravenberch`s impressive development.
Ryan Gravenberch in the Premier League Stats
| Stats (* per game) | 23/24 | 24/25 |
|---|---|---|
| Matches (starts) | 26 (12) | 37 (37) |
| Goals | 1 | 0 |
| Assists | 0 | 4 |
| Touches* | 28.8 | 66.5 |
| Pass completion | 83% | 89% |
| Key passes* | 0.6 | 0.7 |
| Dribbles* | 0.9 | 1.0 |
| Ball recoveries* | 2.8 | 5.2 |
| Tackles + interceptions* | 1.5 | 3.5 |
| Duels (won)* | 2.8 (47%) | 5.0 (57%) |
| Stats via Sofascore | ||
Gravenberch excelled in a modified role under Slot during the 2024/25 season.
Nevertheless, he appeared fatigued towards the season`s end, making Liverpool`s potential move for a new midfielder to compete for the deep midfield position understandable.
Liverpool Makes Bid for New Midfielder
Spanish reports indicate that Liverpool, along with Chelsea and Bayer Leverkusen, have submitted formal offers for Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado.
The 21-year-old, a graduate of the renowned La Masia academy, has gained prominence at Camp Nou over the last year. His smooth performances in midfield have attracted interested clubs, potentially looking to exploit the competition for places in Hansi Flick`s crowded midfield roster.
With a valuation of €40 million (£35 million), Barcelona is reportedly open to considering offers as they seek to alleviate their current financial difficulties.
Rationale for Liverpool`s Interest in Marc Casado
Casado is at the beginning of a promising career. His intelligence, technical skill on the ball, and defensive commitment suggest he could be a valuable addition to Liverpool, despite their already strong midfield options.
