Ryan Gravenberch has enjoyed a sensational start to the season (Image: Getty)
made it no secret that they were in the market for a No. 6 over the summer, though they may have benefitted from the rejection of Martin Zubimendi.
The Reds shortlisted the midfielder as their top target but were ultimately snubbed by the Spain international, .
opted against turning their attention to alternatives, and the decision has bore fruit in the shape of Ryan Gravenberch. The Netherlands international has thrived since receiving a show of faith from and quickly made himself one of the first names on the team sheet at Anfield.
Despite being signed from as a creative midfielder, Gravenberch has impressed in deeper areas where he can dictate the tempo of matches and is afforded more time to pick his passes.
The midfielder shone during , with his ability to read the game and willingness to break down attacks coming to light.
The Reds won’t be particularly surprised by Gravenberch’s progress, especially given that pushed so aggressively to sign him on several occasions previously.
Arne Slot has spoken about Ryan Gravenberch at length previously (Image: Getty)
The Red Devils shortlisted the 22-year-old as a target whilst he was breaking through at Ajax but ultimately missed out to Bayern, and ’s side were reportedly in the frame when it became clear that the midfielder did not have a future at the Allianz Arena.
United’s midfield has been an issue for a matter of years, and the arrival of Gravenberch – on current form – would have solved plenty of their problems. Instead, Ten Hag has tinkered with his central trio and cannot settle on three stars who bring out the best in each other at this stage.
United looked to sign Gravenberch previously (Image: Getty)
But United’s interest will be a distant memory for Gravenberch, with Slot continuing to shower him with praise and highlight his importance for ’s progression.
Speaking after the Reds’ win over Bologna, the ex-Feyenoord boss said: “He was outstanding again today, Ryan, with his dribbling ability and that was important against this team but if we only focus on the dribbles he had we forget maybe how important he is without the ball, where he does a lot of work and wins a lot of second balls as well.
“I was delighted with him. I don’t say that to players at half-time because there is still 45 minutes to go but I said after the game ‘again big performance’. Ryan was again outstanding today.”