Lynch: Liverpool No Longer Targetting Specialist Six After Gravenberch Progress | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Midfield Plans: What Next for Arne Slot and Ryan Gravenberch?

Liverpool’s midfield has undergone significant changes over the past year, and the evolution is far from over. The emergence of Ryan Gravenberch as a viable option in the deeper role has raised questions about the club’s transfer priorities. Will Liverpool still target a specialist number six, or has their recruitment focus shifted?

In the latest episode of Media Matters on Anfield Index, journalist David Lynch joined Dave Davis to discuss Liverpool’s midfield strategy, the impact of Gravenberch, and what kind of midfielder the club will look to sign this summer.

Photo: IMAGO

Has Liverpool’s Midfield Focus Changed?

For two consecutive summers, Liverpool have been linked with defensive midfielders, yet they have not signed a true specialist for the role. The failed pursuit of Moisés Caicedo and Roméo Lavia last year suggested a desire to fill the position, but Gravenberch’s development may have altered the club’s approach.

“I think the Gravenberch emergence has kind of changed what they need completely,” Lynch explained. “I don’t think when they went for Zubimendi, they expected Gravenberch to be this good in this role. I think that’s come as a bit of a surprise to everyone.”

That unexpected development could mean a shift in Liverpool’s transfer strategy. Rather than signing an out-and-out number six, the club may now be looking for a more versatile midfielder.

Liverpool’s Ideal Midfield Profile

If Liverpool were still looking for a specialist number six, it would mean bringing in a player capable of replacing Gravenberch in that role. Lynch, however, believes that wouldn’t make sense for the squad.

“It would be madness to go and sign a specialist six now who is going to spend ninety percent of the season on the bench,” he said. “People say, ‘Well, you need depth,’ and yes, you do need depth. But it makes no sense to have a world-class number six sat behind Gravenberch or to suddenly want to bench Gravenberch for most of the season.”

Photo: IMAGO

Instead, Liverpool may prioritise a midfielder who can operate in multiple roles rather than just as a holding player.

“The profile Liverpool need really is someone who can do a bit everywhere now,” Lynch explained. “Someone who can play in that six and is capable but also someone who can play a little bit further forward and mix things up in that way.”

This would allow for more natural squad rotation without forcing either Gravenberch or a new signing into a backup role.

How Will Liverpool Approach Midfield Recruitment?

The key for Liverpool will be finding the right balance in midfield. While Gravenberch has shown promise, there is still room for reinforcement, particularly in terms of physicality and tactical flexibility.

A versatile, aggressive midfielder—perhaps in the mould of João Palhinha or Martin Zubimendi—could fit the bill. “Still think it’ll be a young, aggressive player who can do six and eight,” one of the Media Matters listeners noted, a sentiment Lynch agreed with.

Lynch also suggested that Liverpool’s recruitment will be closely tied to outgoings, reinforcing the idea that major changes will only happen if players leave.

“It’s still a case of one in, one out,” he said. “They’re not going to look to do wholesale changes unless there are wholesale exits at the same time.”

That means potential departures—such as Thiago Alcântara or Harvey Elliott—could directly influence whether Liverpool move for another midfielder.

Tactical Evolution Under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s midfield strategy under Arne Slot appears to be taking shape. Rather than locking into a rigid formation, the focus is on adaptability and competition.

With Gravenberch now trusted in a deeper role, the emphasis may shift toward signing a midfielder who can cover both six and eight. This would allow for more balance in the squad without disrupting the progress of existing players.

One thing is certain—Liverpool’s midfield rebuild is not over yet. The summer window will provide further clarity, but for now, the club seems content with the path they are taking.