Liverpool learn fate of Bayern Munich midfielder pursuit as West Ham told if they can snare Rice replacement | OneFootball

Leon Goretzka replacing Ryan Gravenberch

Transfer insider Dean Jones has admitted he “can’t see” Liverpool and West Ham target Leon Goretzka moving to the Premier League, “let alone” to the latter.

Interest from both the Reds and the Hammers in Goretzka has been reported of late. Indeed, both sides are on the hunt for quality players to add to their respective midfield units.

For Liverpool, the potential exits of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho could add to an already lengthy list of midfield departures this summer. While West Ham haven’t seen as many stars leave, they’ve been hit hard by their best player and club captain, Declan Rice, moving to Arsenal for £105million.

Replacing one of the Premier League’s best midfielders with a player from one of Europe’s best sides would be a statement, and a move that would make a lot of sense.

For Liverpool, they’ll simply want to ensure their midfield is at a high standard so they can maintain their status as one of the league’s best sides.

However, both sides could be met with a disappointing answer to whether or not they could land Goretzka. It’s already been reported he is ‘resisting all efforts’ to get him to move on, despite the fact Bayern could sell him for £34million.

While Jones doesn’t suggest the midfielder is digging his heels, the insider feels that a move to the Premier League is somewhat unrealistic currently.

“You are seeing new names now brought to the table, Leon Goretzka was linked the other day, but I can’t see Goretzka coming to the Premier League, let alone to West Ham,” he told Ranks FC.

Goretzka has never played for a club outside of Germany, and, when fit, has done well for Bayern – he was directly involved in 12 goals in all competitions despite missing a portion of the season through injury – so it makes sense that a move away is unlikely.

For West Ham, while it might not be Goretzka joining, they’re sure to have big plans for the money they received from Rice.

“But it’s the new guy Tim Steidten, he’s got a handle on recruitment and he’s bringing new names to the table now,” Jones added.

Indeed, Steidten has just been appointed the Hammers’ technical director, having previously held roles in the Bundesliga. As such, with a lot of money in the bank and a good knowledge of German stars, he could well find a great replacement for Rice.

And for Liverpool, if they’re to miss out on Goretzka, it won’t be the end of the world, especially given they’re still courting Romeo Lavia.