S Poddar
The Reds have made an unexpected start to life in the new Premier League season, dismissing fears that the squad were not ready. After a rather silent summer transfer window, Jurgen Klopp’s men have been doing great, although many people had thought that probably the Reds had not worked on their midfield as they should have.
One such area of concern was the heart of Liverpool’s midfield, which new manager Arne Slot wanted to take in a different tactical direction. What Slot had in mind called for new options, especially in central midfield. Still, despite trying hard to get Martin Zubimendi, that move never came to fruition. Instead, in landed Ryan Gravenberch, who has been one of the high points of the season at Liverpool. Despite Gravenberch’s excellent form, there are suggestions that Slot may look to bring in some more midfield reinforcements when January rolls around.
In the last days of the summer transfer window, Liverpool had a little bit of a blow with the highly-anticipated signing of Zubimendi collapsing in the last minute. It really caught Liverpool sleeping, as they did not expect it to fall through. Anyway, Gravenberch has filled in the gap quite nicely in the previous performances and even excelled in his role as one of the two sitting midfielders.
Despite the fine displays of Gravenberch, there’s a feeling that Liverpool may well still have a hankering to revive their interest in Zubimendi. In fact, journalist David Lynch has seemed to suggest on Anfield Agenda that such an avenue is not yet closed. Lynch believes Liverpool haven’t slammed the door shut on Zubimendi, referring to how there was no ill-will or angry words from either party following the transfer that never came through in August. It seems the club have taken the situation rather “as part of football negotiations,” and therefore have left the door ajar on a possible move in January.
The inclusion of Zubimendi into the ranks during the winter transfer window should give Liverpool the depth and flexibility they require in the latter half of the season. Slot’s tactical adjustments, with a few already taking shape, may be rounded off with inclusions of at least one quality midfielder. Zubimendi’s set of skills will fit in alongside Gravenberch, providing rotation and giving the manager options against various opponents and situations.
How much Liverpool can maintain their form in the Premier League with additional involvement in other competitions may depend on the strength and depth of their squad. Undoubtedly, if the opportunity presents itself, securing a player of Zubimendi’s ilk may prove imperative in ensuring the team remains competitive on all fronts. While Gravenberch has doubtless done enough to prove his worth, the rigors of a long season may require additional reinforcements, especially in such a pivotal area as central midfield.
With January looming, eyes will be on Liverpool and their transfer strategy. Whether it be a second charge at Zubimendi or indeed elsewhere, it is unmistakable that the club means business as they build a squad to try and challenge for top honors. The very fact that the Reds are willing to go back in for previous targets like Zubimendi outlines the intent of the club to continue strengthening in midfield as they look to kick on under Slot’s guidance.
All in all, Liverpool’s potential January transfer business might well involve them rekindling their summer interest in Martin Zubimendi. The Reds seem to be doing well in midfield with Ryan Gravenberch at the moment, but another quality talent such as Zubimendi would perhaps give the squad the depth needed to mount a title challenge in multiple competitions. The January window is sure to be one of the most integral periods for the Reds as they try to strengthen their ranks and keep their dream start going.
