Affordable recruit’s evolution COMPLETE under Arne Slot as Richard Hughes beams with pride

Right after being associated with Real Madrid, a Liverpool player has delivered his finest performance this season for Arne Slot’s team, as the Reds triumphed over Everton at Anfield during the Merseyside derby on Saturday, with sporting director Richard Hughes emerging as a significant benefactor.

Liverpool secured their fifth consecutive win in the Premier League this season by defeating Everton 2-1. Although the Toffees improved in the second half, Liverpool maintained control throughout and rightfully earned all three points from the Merseyside derby.

Ryan Gravenberch shone brightly in the Merseyside derby, with the Netherlands international midfielder netting a goal in the 10th minute and later assisting Hugo Ekitike’s goal in the 29th minute for Liverpool.

Liverpool manager Slot positioned Gravenberch as one of the two defensive midfielders in a 4-2-3-1 setup, yet the former Bayern Munich player was granted the liberty to advance offensively.

Gravenberch scored with a superb lofted shot following a pass from Mohamed Salah and subsequently assisted Ekitike with a clever through-ball.

Against Everton, Gravenberch recorded a passing accuracy of 83.9%, won a header, had 69 touches, attempted a dribble, and made five tackles along with a single interception, per WhoScored.

It was a thorough midfield display from the 23-year-old, who did not score for Liverpool last season but already has two goals this year.

Post-match, Gravenberch praised manager Arne Slot, who has entirely reshaped the midfielder’s role after a mixed tenure under Jurgen Klopp.

Gravenberch stated to TNT Sports at the conclusion of the match: “The coach has instilled confidence in me, and this season we enjoy more freedom in midfield.

“Last season, I was strictly a 6, positioned deeper, and now I can push forward more, as demonstrated today. I believe that is where I excel, and I’m pleased with that.”

Former Liverpool forward Peter Crouch was greatly impressed by Gravenberch and asserted that he has been the standout player for the Reds this season.

Crouch remarked to TNT Sports after the match: “He demonstrated it once more. I think he has been the best player for Liverpool this season. There’s no need to sugarcoat it. He’s an absolute class act.

“The way he transitions from midfield, breaking lines by bypassing opponents, and his touches around the box showcase his quality, and he also works tirelessly and fulfills his defensive responsibilities.”

Richard Hughes celebrates as Real Madrid targets Ryan Gravenberch

Former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott also expressed admiration for Gravenberch and commented on TNT Sports after the match: “Even without scoring, I believe his ball control and tenacity to regain possession is outstanding. He is in excellent shape, that young man.”

Gravenberch’s performance will play a critical role in Liverpool securing the Premier League title for a consecutive year and also achieving success in the Champions League.

Interest in Gravenberch has been shown by Real Madrid, with a report from Spain suggesting that Xabi Alonso has advised president Florentino Perez to meet his 'new wish' of signing the 23-year-old.

The report highlighted that Liverpool estimates Gravenberch's worth at €75 million (£65.3 million, $88.2 million), having procured the midfielder from Bayern Munich for only £34.2 million (€30 million, $46 million) during the summer transfer window of 2023.

Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes will be quite pleased with Gravenberch's growth.

Considering his rapid development under Slot and his newfound ability to score goals, Hughes recognizes that he possesses a significant talent on his roster.

Liverpool will likely be unwilling to part with Gravenberch, and should Real Madrid express interest, Hughes can demand a substantial fee, which could exceed €75 million (£65.3 million, $88.2 million), if Gravenberch continues to advance in his performance throughout this season.