Trusted Reporter Dismisses Liverpool and Real Madrid Swap Deal Rumors
A well-regarded transfer journalist has dismissed recent rumors of a potential swap deal involving a Liverpool player, calling it highly unlikely.
Earlier this month, reports from Spain suggested that Real Madrid were considering an exchange that would see Ryan Gravenberch head to the Bernabeu and Aurélien Tchouaméni move to Anfield.
However, the likelihood of this happening has now been firmly ruled out.
Plettenberg: Gravenberch Staying at Liverpool
Florian Plettenberg, a trusted Sky Sports reporter, took to X on Wednesday to clarify that Ryan Gravenberch has no intention of leaving Liverpool.
He also stated that the club has no interest in pursuing the rumored swap deal with Real Madrid.
Plettenberg wrote:
“Ryan Gravenberch is currently not considering leaving Liverpool. The 22-year-old is a key performer and a leading player for the team. There are no plans or discussions regarding a transfer in winter or summer.
“Been told that LFC also have no intention of pursuing a swap deal involving Aurélien Tchouaméni at this stage.”
Why Would Liverpool Let Gravenberch Go?
The suggestion of Liverpool letting go of Gravenberch always seemed far-fetched.
The Dutch midfielder has been one of the standout performers for the Reds this season, even outperforming Tchouaméni across several metrics.
According to *FBref*, Gravenberch has outshone his Real Madrid counterpart in key areas such as:
Shots on Target Percentage: 28.6% vs. 14.3%
Tackles and Interceptions: 59 vs. 48
Tackle Success Rate: 58.3% vs. 47.4%
Successful Take-Ons: 30 vs. 7
Progressive Carries: 31 vs. 10
Aerial Duel Success: 88.2% vs. 70%
Gravenberch has seamlessly integrated into Arne Slot’s system at Liverpool, while Tchouaméni would face a significant challenge adjusting to the Reds’ style and replicating the Dutchman’s impact.
Additionally, Gravenberch’s prior struggles during a brief stint at Bayern Munich suggest that he’s unlikely to leave an environment where he’s thriving for a move that would require him to start over.
No Exit for Gravenberch
With Plettenberg firmly quashing the rumors, it’s clear that Gravenberch is staying at Anfield for the foreseeable future.
The idea of Liverpool sacrificing one of their top performers for a swap deal always seemed implausible, and this latest update confirms that Gravenberch remains a key part of the club’s plans moving forward.
