Real Madrid have reportedly expressed their ‘interest’ in signing a Liverpool star – and it’s not Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The two teams faced off in the Champions League at Anfield on Wednesday night, with the Premier League side securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Carlo Ancelotti’s team.
This win allowed Liverpool to reclaim the top position in the 36-team Champions League group stage.
Real Madrid have long been rumored to be interested in Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold, whose contract is set to expire this summer. However, in a surprising twist, the 15-time European champions may also be eyeing another of Arne Slot’s players.
Spanish outlet Fichajes reports that the clubs could be open to a potential ‘swap’ deal involving midfielders in the upcoming transfer window.
The players under consideration are Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch and Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni, who had previously been linked with a move to Anfield. The report also indicates that an additional fee of €20-30 million could be included in the swap deal.
Gravenberch, 22, has impressed in his new role as Liverpool’s ‘number six’ this season, despite a challenging period under Jurgen Klopp last year. However, with the arrival of his Dutch counterpart, Slot, the former Bayern Munich midfielder seems to have found his rhythm at Liverpool.
Slot praised Gravenberch after Wednesday’s victory over Madrid during his post-match press conference. “I agree, he played a great game, which wasn’t easy after picking up a yellow card early on,” the Liverpool boss noted. “But he’s very comfortable with the ball, and we like to dominate possession. Having players who are so calm and effective on the ball is always valuable. He plays a key role, bringing the ball up to the players who can create chances. His running ability also sets him apart — he never stops running.”
Slot added, “Like everyone else, he benefits from the team’s performance because, as I always say, it’s the team performance that boosts individual performances, not the other way around.”
Gravenberch’s current contract runs until June 2028.
Tchouaméni, who joined Real Madrid from Monaco in 2022, has shown promise in his 103 appearances for the club but has struggled to fully establish himself in the team. Prior to his move to Madrid, the French international admitted to following Premier League games.
Like Gravenberch, Tchouaméni’s contract with Madrid also expires in June 2028.
It remains unclear whether either club has made any formal approaches regarding a potential move.
