Reliable Journalist Rejects Liverpool-Real Madrid Swap Deal Speculation
A respected transfer journalist has dismissed recent rumors linking Liverpool with a potential swap deal, calling the speculation involving one of their players extremely unlikely.
Earlier this month, Spanish reports claimed that Real Madrid was considering an exchange that would see Ryan Gravenberch move to the Bernabeu, with Aurélien Tchouaméni heading to Anfield. However, these rumors have now been thoroughly debunked.
Plettenberg: Gravenberch Remains at Liverpool
Florian Plettenberg, a trusted Sky Sports reporter, took to X on Wednesday to clarify that Ryan Gravenberch has no plans to leave Liverpool. He also emphasized that the club is not interested in pursuing the proposed swap deal with Real Madrid.
Plettenberg stated:
“Ryan Gravenberch is not considering a departure from Liverpool. The 22-year-old is a crucial player and integral to the team. There are no discussions or plans for a transfer in the winter or summer windows.
“I’ve been informed that Liverpool also has no intention of pursuing a swap deal involving Aurélien Tchouaméni at this time.”
Why Would Liverpool Sell Gravenberch?
The idea of Liverpool parting with Gravenberch has always seemed improbable. The Dutch midfielder has been one of the club’s standout performers this season, even outperforming Tchouaméni in several key statistics.
According to FBref, Gravenberch has outperformed his Real Madrid counterpart in areas such as:
- Shots on Target Percentage: 28.6% vs. 14.3%
- Tackles and Interceptions: 59 vs. 48
- Tackle Success Rate: 58.3% vs. 47.4%
- Successful Take-Ons: 30 vs. 7
- Progressive Carries: 31 vs. 10
- Aerial Duel Success: 88.2% vs. 70%
Gravenberch has fit seamlessly into Arne Slot’s system at Liverpool, whereas Tchouaméni would face significant challenges adjusting to the team’s style and matching Gravenberch’s impact. Furthermore, Gravenberch’s disappointing spell at Bayern Munich suggests he would be unlikely to leave a thriving environment at Liverpool for a move that could disrupt his progress.
Gravenberch’s Future at Liverpool
With Plettenberg effectively squashing the rumors, it’s clear that Gravenberch will remain at Anfield for the foreseeable future. The notion that Liverpool would part with one of their top performers in exchange for another player always seemed implausible, and this latest update confirms that Gravenberch is an essential part of the club’s future plans.
