Failing to complete a full ninety minutes with Bayern Munich over the last Bundesliga season, rumours surrounding the future of Ryan Gravenberch are brewing. What happened, and where should the stifled starboy look to revive his young career?
After impressing at every level throughout his time with Ajax, Gravenberch looked set to take Europe's elite by storm and secured a dream move to Bayern Munich. The German champions are infamous for creating machine-like players who can technically and physically dominate—seemingly a perfect fit for the young midfield engine.
Before the move, the Dutchman made 103 appearances for Ajax Amsterdam's senior side, providing thirteen assists and netting twelve goals. Commonly operating as a number eight in a midfield three or on the left side of a double pivot, Gravenberch is effective in any midfield area and can fill either defensive or attacking roles.
Standing 6'2, the youngster is a defensively physical presence and naturally uses his strength during attacking phases through ball retention. With Ajax, such ability quickly made Gravenberch a vital midfield cog, ultimately leading to his reputation as one of Europe's best young talents.
Unfortunately, converting reputation and potential into physical success has long haunted the 'starboys' of the modern game. Continued success with Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich forming a double pivot behind Thomas Muller's and Jamal Musiala's rotation has solidified a midfield system.
There is a need for backup, but the Dutchman has failed to break into Bayern's starting eleven and is facing the inevitable question - will his FIFA 21 potential define his career?
In a bid to claw back regular playing time and the opportunity to showcase his true ability, the Dutch midfielder looks to be pushing for a move. After struggling in Germany, many are touting a move to the Premier League as a host of top clubs look to bolster their midfield ranks.
Dominating the rumour mill is Liverpool. A side that a hard to say no to despite lacking Champions League football, with a midfield rebuild underway. Saying goodbye to Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and James Milner has left space for recruitment in an already faulty midfield system. Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, and Fabinho are edging towards the twilight of their careers and will soon need replacing.
Two factors make this a likely move. Firstly, after drip-feeding the media rumours of a move for nearly a year, the Reds missed out on Jude Bellingham. Gravenberch has long been viewed as the Englishman's Dutch counterpart and would offer the Merseyside club a chance to appease disappointed fans with a player of a similar profile.
Secondly, the infamously frugal transfer policy employed by FSG would stand a decent chance of couping a player in such a rut of form. Capitalising on low price tags and release clauses has won FSG every trophy on offer to Liverpool. The policy isn't facing any scrutiny at the moment.
However, the allure of returning to Erik Ten Hag's tutelage at Manchester United will likely influence the Dutch midfielder's decision. Ten Hag will be looking to build upon the progress he made last season and continue to put his stamp on the squad at Old Trafford.
Newcastle United and Eddie will also be circling the midfielder as they look to improve upon their Champions League finish and compete with Europe's elite. Both sides can offer something Jurgen Klopp cannot with UCL football and have much more lenient wage structures.
Clubs outside of the EPL will also be showing interest, and Ryan Gravenberch has a decision on his hands. Where do you see the Dutchman plying his trade next season?
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