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Arsenal to rival Liverpool for Bayern Munich's Ryan Gravenberch?

By Ben Sully | 10 April 2023

Arsenal to rival Liverpool for Ryan Gravenberch?

Arsenal are reportedly set to battle Premier League rivals Liverpool for the signature of Bayern Munich midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.

Arsenal are reportedly set to rival Liverpool for the signature of Bayern Munich midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.

The Dutchman developed an impressive reputation during his time at Ajax, registering 12 goals and 13 assists in 103 appearances.

Gravenberch's performances earned him a move to Bayern last summer, but he has struggled to make a significant impact in his short time with the German champions.

The Netherlands international has only started one of his 17 Bundesliga appearances this season, leading to speculation that he could move away to increase his playing time.

Liverpool are believed to be among his admirers as they plan for a rebuild of their midfield in the summer transfer window.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on March 15, 2023 © Reuters

Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are set to leave when their contracts expire in June, while James Milner could also depart on a free transfer if he fails to sign a new deal.

Should the Reds decide to pursue a move for Gravenberch then they could face competition from the current Premier League leaders.

According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal are keeping tabs on the 20-year-old's situation at Bayern.

No negotiations have taken place between the two clubs, but there is a belief that the Gunners could offer Gravenberch more game time despite boasting an array of midfield options.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta can currently call upon the likes of Martin Odegaard, Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey and January arrival Jorginho.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pictured on April 9, 2023 © Reuters

However, they are keen to strengthen their midfield in the summer, and Gravenberch could be a potential option, especially if they fail to land West Ham United's Declan Rice, who is their priority target.

A recent report claimed that prising Gravenberch away from the Bundesliga club may be difficult after Thomas Tuchel recently replaced Julian Nagelsmann as manager.

Tuchel is keen to give Gravenberch a fair chance and the former Chelsea manager will ultimately have the final say on whether he stays or departs in the summer.

Having featured as a substitute in two of Tuchel's first three games in charge, Gravenberch is expected to be on the bench when Bayern face Manchester City in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie on Tuesday evening.