Liverpool could look to sign £51m player in January and rotate him with Ryan Gravenberch

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Liverpool have so far made a mockery of suggestions that they were heading into the new Premier League season a little undercooked.

After being extremely inactive during the summer transfer market, there had been worries that the Reds had left themselves short.

The most glaring issue – according to many – was in the centre of Liverpool’s midfield.

With Arne Slot looking to play a slightly different way through the middle of the pitch, the Dutchman obviously wanted something different than what he already had.

Having failed to sign Martin Zubimendi, though, Slot has had to make do with Ryan Gravenberch as one of his two deepest lying midfielders. So far, Gravenberch has been a revelation. But it still looks possible that Slot will try for another option in January.

Liverpool could return for Martin Zubimendi

Back when Zubimendi pulled out of a move to Liverpool in August, it left the Reds high and dry.

Liverpool believed Zubimendi had given his word that he was ready to join and did not bother lining up an alternative.

And while Gravenberch has proven to be more than able at stepping in during the early games of the season, it would make sense that appreciation in the Spaniard would remain.

According to journalist David Lynch, that is indeed the case. Speaking on Anfield Agenda, Lynch says that there is still the possibility that if everything lines up, Liverpool could try to lure Zubimendi once again.

“I don’t think they will have taken offence from what happened,” says the reporter. “I don’t think that was completely closed off, no angry phone calls or anything like that. I think there was just an acceptance that it is what it is, these situations happen in football.

READ MORE: Liverpool told there’s a midfielder who’s ‘screaming out’ as a Martin Zubimendi alternative

“They also felt the pressure was being put on the player from Sociedad’s side more than anything else. They didn’t feel the U-turn was traitorous to Liverpool or anything like that, they felt that Real Sociedad had played a big role in that.

“We know that Liverpool have a very narrow list of targets,” Lynch adds. “That’s why they’re so good at signings coming in and doing well. We know Zubimendi ticks so many boxes for them.

“If the player’s ready in January to make the move I don’t think Liverpool would rule that out at all. I think there’s a chance there that if the player gives the nod and Real Sociedad are willing to let him go, that potentially in January it could be reignited.

“So, yeah, one to keep an eye on. I still think the desire’s there from Liverpool to add that little bit of quality and add a bit of rotation with Ryan Gravenberch. It’s an exciting possibility. That he hasn’t signed a new contract yet keeps Liverpool in the game.”

Should Liverpool return for Zubimendi?

While they would have been hugely disappointed by Zubimendi’s initial decision to turn them down, Liverpool supporters will likely be conflicted about returning for the £51m man.

Gravenberch is getting better by the game and it would be a shame to knock him out of that stride. At just 22, the Dutchman could yet develop further and make the position his own.

There is also sure to be some lingering animosity towards Zubimendi. Liverpool themselves may not harbour any ill-will, but fans may find it more difficult to warm to a player who has already turned them down.

But putting all of that to one side, it’s clear that coming back for Zubimendi if there’s a chance to get him is the smart move from Liverpool.

As good as Gravenberch has been, he cannot play every game. Curtis Jones could come in, sure, but there are other positions in the midfield which need rotating, too. It’s clear that Slot wants two quality options in each role. So, if they can get him Zubimendi in the winter, we think Liverpool should do it.