The agent of a Liverpool star has irritated supporters with comments made about a desire to play for Real Madrid.
Although they are in pole position to win the Premier League, Liverpool fans have been left frustrated by the sagas surrounding key trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mo Salah.
All three are out of contract in the summer and Alexander-Arnold appears to be on his way out, with the England international set to sign for Real on a free.
However there is hope that Salah and Virgil van Dijk could be staying around beyond this season, following on fresh a fresh update on proceedings.
According to widespread reports, Salah is closing in on an agreement with Liverpool to extend his deal – while Van Dijk said there has been “progress” in negotiations.
But another important player’s agent has fueled talk of a departure to Real with recent remarks.
Ryan Gravenberch signed for Liverpool for a fee of £34 million from Bayern Munich and had a fairly underwhelming first season at Anfield.
But the former Ajax man has been revitalised under Arne Slot and has been one of Liverpool’s top performers as they move towards a 20th league title.
The Netherlands man is one of the first names on the teamsheet and has a contract until 2028. However, Jose Fortes Rodriguez, his long-term agent, has claimed his agency firm “would love” for him to turn out for 15-time European champions.
However, he did conceded that it would be “impossible” to happen because of the fee Liverpool would command.
Ryan Gravenberch has been one of the Liverpool’s top performers. Image: Getty
“When Ryan was 16, Barca called us,” he told MARCA.
“They wanted to sign him, but his father and I prioritized his development. He’s good enough for Real Madrid. We would love for him to play for them, but Liverpool would ask for a lot of money. I know they’ve had their eye on him, but now it’s impossible.”
Gravenberch credits Slot for improvement
Liverpool were pushing to sign top target Martin Zubimendi in the summer but the Spain international opted to stay put with Real Sociedad.
That meant Gravenberch was moved to the No.6 position and made the role his own. One of Liverpool’s most consistent performers, he has also deputised in central defence on occasion.
And back in December Gravenberch hailed Slot for giving him the confidence to find his form again.
“Now I play a lot of games as a starter, so it’s a little bit different. The coach gave me confidence when I needed it and I’m happy that I can show myself again,” Gravenberch told TNT Sports.
“Just the run of games, you really need it to be honest,” he added.
“Sometimes it’s really hard. For example, if you’re on the bench and the next game you play good, the next game you’re on the bench, then you come in for 10 minutes, then the 10 minutes are not really going how you want it.
“Then the next game you’re on the bench again, so that’s difficult.
“So yeah, just the run of games – that gives you the confidence if you’re doing good on the pitch.”
After a 3-2 loss to Fulham on Sunday, Liverpool look to bounce back with a game against West Ham at Anfield.
