Richard Hughes sleepwalks into €100m Liverpool error

Richard Hughes sleepwalks into €100m Liverpool error

Ryan Gravenberch's poor form proves why Liverpool still need a defensive midfielder

Although Liverpool's midfield is full to the brim with talent, it's clear that improvements could still be made.

The form of Dominik Szoboszlai has been a sight to behold this season but, apart from the Hungarian, there aren't many stand-out performers from the Reds' midfield ranks.

This has caused many rumours to emerge with Ryan Gravenberch's recent lack of form quickly becoming a major concern.

That is, especially since he's just extended his stay and is expected to earn around €100 million over the next five years.

An example of the Dutchman's massive drop off in form is Liverpool's recent 2-0 win over Fulham.

Although Gravenberch only played 45 minutes of the game, as soon as he entered the pitch, it was clear that he was going to put in half of the performance that Curtis Jones did.

In fact, he only managed 12 passes throughout his time on the pitch whereas Jones managed 37.

And now, it's unclear whether it' was even worth Liverpool offering him a new deal.

Liverpool have a few options on the table to replace Ryan Gravenberch

Although finding a good defensive midfielder for a decent price is close to impossible these days, that doesn't mean Liverpool should stop trying.

Several players such as Adam Wharton, Eduardo Camavinga and even Elliot Anderson have been put forward as potential options for Arne Slot and Hughes this summer.

But, since the Reds already have too many midfielders among their ranks, it means that some players are going to have to be moved on with Jones currently at the top of that list.

Indeed, others such as Alexis Mac Allister and Szoboszlai have also been linked with moves away but, if you look at the players Slot chooses to start each week, it's clear that neither of them will be moved on.

Gravenberch was expected to be Liverpool's defensive midfielder for years to come, but, if the Anfield outfit can find a player who's a natural in that role, it could be the best case scenario for everyone involved.

Whatever Liverpool choose to do, they need to figure it out quickly otherwise they could be left looking rather red-faced.