Liverpool star's agent clarifies transfer confusion after huge Real Madrid claim

The latest Liverpool transfer news and rumours after the agent of Reds' midfielder, Ryan Gravenberch, issued a come-and-get-me plea to Real Madrid.

Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch inadvertently made the headlines on Thursday morning, but for all the wrong reasons as his agent appeared to issue a 'come-and-get-me plea' to Real Madrid.

The 22-year-old Netherlands regular has been a player transformed under Arne Slot this season after a relatively quiet first year at Anfield following his transfer from Bayern Munich. Gravenberch was someone Liverpool had admired for some time - dating back to his Ajax days - so they did not hesitate to jump at the opportunity to sign him for a cut-price fee after he struggled to settle at the Allianz Arena.

Liverpool attempted to sign Spain international Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad last summer, but after it became clear a deal would not be possible, Slot has happy to put his trust in Gravenberch to play in his deeper-lying midfield role. The head coach's faith has comfortably been repaid as Gravenberch has been one of his most important players this term, with the Reds charging towards a historic Premier League title.

The Dutch midfielder's eye-catching performances this term have, unsurprisingly, caught the attention of top clubs across Europe, who may have previously written him off after a disappointing spell at Bayern. The player's agent has also added fuel to the fire this week with comments claiming he would love his client to join Real Madrid.

Jose Rodriguez, who represents Gravenberch, told Marca: "When Ryan was 16, Barca called us. They wanted to sign him, but his father and I prioritised his development.

"At Ajax, he was able to develop in a way he possibly wouldn't have at Barca. He's good enough for Real Madrid.

"We would love for him to play for them - but Liverpool would ask for a lot of money. I know Real have had their eye on him, but now it's impossible."

His comments understandably rattled a few feathers among the Liverpool fanbase, with the La Liga giants already rumoured to be closing in on a free transfer to sign academy graduate Trent Alexander-Arnold. It would be a bitter blow if they were to poach other big names in the squad when Slot is in the process of building something special.

Indeed, one supporter took to Instagram and left a comment on one of Rodriguez's posts - accusing him of being disrespectful to the club. Gravenberch's agent took this as an opportunity to clarify his comments and reiterate his client's commitment to Liverpool.

"I'm Spanish, it's my dream club, not the dream club of Ryan," Rodriguez replied. "He's really really happy and, if you ask Ryan, he will agree with you [that Liverpool is the biggest club in the world].

"No stress. Keep calm."

Gravenberch signed a five-year contract when he joined Liverpool from Bayern in 2023. His current deal runs until 2028, meaning the Reds would hold all the cards if any other clubs came knocking.

The midfielder is also a firm favourite under Slot with 43 appearances across all competitions. He has started all 31 of Liverpool's Premier League this season, giving him little reason to seek a move away from Anfield.

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