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Liverpool’s Midfield Refresh: Bundesliga Star Merlin Rohl on Reds’ Radar

Liverpool’s transfer activity this summer has largely focused on defensive reinforcements and tactical upgrades, but attention may now be turning back to midfield — a department that, while bolstered last season, began to show signs of wear as the Premier League title run-in took its toll.

According to a report by Sport Bild, Liverpool are tracking Germany Under-21 midfielder Merlin Rohl, currently impressing at the UEFA Euro Under-21 Championships. The Freiburg player has caught the eye of Premier League clubs with his versatility, composure, and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch.

Versatility and Value in Midfield

Although Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch were key cogs in Arne Slot’s successful first campaign, depth is a growing concern. Curtis Jones remains a valuable squad member, but with Gravenberch showing signs of fatigue during the final stages of last season, fresh legs are needed.

Rohl, described by former Ingolstadt coach Thomas Oral as a “complete” midfielder, fits the bill. Not only can he contribute offensively, but he also excels at the “dirty work” in the middle — attributes that align closely with the demands of Slot’s high-intensity, fluid system. Some observers have even likened him to Leon Goretzka in his style of play, due to his blend of power, technique and tactical intelligence.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Face Premier League Competition

Everton have reportedly made two bids for Rohl and are prepared to return with a third. Crystal Palace and Newcastle are also in the picture, but Liverpool’s stature as Premier League champions and the presence of three Reds players in the Germany Under-21 squad could tilt things in their favour.

Despite struggling with injury last season, Rohl’s stock remains high. Sport Bild note that Freiburg would expect a fee similar to the €25 million they received from Brentford for Kevin Schade. With Rohl’s contract extended in September 2024, Freiburg are in a strong negotiating position — meaning Liverpool will have to move decisively if they want to beat their rivals to his signature.

Midfield Evolution Continues Under Slot

Liverpool’s recruitment has already been proactive this summer, with Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez and Freddie Woodman joining the ranks. Adding Rohl would further future-proof the midfield and offer valuable rotational depth.

In a campaign where fixture congestion, injuries and tactical flexibility will be crucial, a player of Rohl’s adaptability and hunger could make a quiet but significant impact.

“He’s a player with excellent timing, physical strength and intelligence,” a Bundesliga analyst told Sport Bild. “You can see why top Premier League clubs are circling.”

With pre-season around the corner, Liverpool’s interest may soon turn into action. If Everton or others force the issue, a bidding war could unfold — one which Richard Hughes and Liverpool’s recruitment team will be watching closely.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this link to Merlin Rohl is intriguing and oddly reassuring. It’s no secret that the Reds’ midfield held strong last season but looked heavy-legged at times, especially when rotation was limited. Arne Slot’s system demands constant energy, press resistance and tactical discipline, and someone like Rohl could quietly tick all those boxes.

While €25 million might seem steep for a player not yet a household name, the market for emerging European talent is shifting. Rohl’s versatility — capable of playing as an eight, a six, or even higher up — gives Liverpool a weapon who can adapt across competitions and formations.

There’s also the sense that Liverpool are planning for long-term succession. With Wirtz in the mix and Szoboszlai expected to return to top form, having a more robust option like Rohl offers balance.

Let’s be honest, any player being targeted by Everton, Palace and Newcastle but also admired by the Premier League champions likely knows which side of the Merseyside divide he’d prefer. And if Liverpool are truly interested, they shouldn’t hesitate. Competition is fierce, and smart recruitment has been the Reds’ hallmark for years. Adding another “complete” midfielder to the squad would be a statement that, even after a title-winning season, Liverpool remain hungry.