Wayne Veysey

Thu 3 October 2024 7:00, UK

Liverpool are still planning to sign a new number six in the upcoming January transfer window despite Ryan Gravenberch’s outstanding start to the campaign, sources have told Football Insider.

Arne Slot wants the club to sell Wataru Endo and replace him with a younger defensive midfielder who can provide cover and competition for Ryan Gravenberch.

Endo’s contract at Anfield expires in 2027, but Slot is willing to cash in on the 31-year-old in the next window and use that to part-fund the capture of a top-class alternative.

The Japan international has been restricted to mainly cameo appearances this season, playing for just one minute in both the Champions League and Premier League ahead of Wednesday’s Bologna clash.

Slot has instead trusted Gravenberch in what what had been an unfamiliar role and he has thrived after his surprise backing from the manager in pre-season, as revealed by Football Insider.

Now Slot is looking to provide competition for the Netherlands international moving forward, while also reducing the squad’s average age.

Liverpool are still in the market for a defensive midfielder after Martin Zubimendi twist

Slot has been aiming to strengthen the number six role ever since he took charge at Anfield.

The Premier League giants had agreed a fee and personal terms for Martin Zubimendi in the summer transfer window, but he opted against the move at the eleventh hour.

Liverpool weren’t able to find a replacement signing in the summer, but Football Insider previously revealed that a defensive midfielder is a priority area for January.

Liverpool’s ability to recruit players will not only strengthen the team but also play a major factor in whether Trent Alexander-Arnold remains at the club.

Football Insider reported that the right-back wants the club to match his personal ambitions both in terms of trophies and in the transfer market.

In other news, Liverpool fans react as Eden Hazard settles Mohamed Salah debate.

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