Liverpool's hope of signing another central midfielder before the transfer window closes have been boosted by Bayern Munich relaxing their stance on selling Ryan Gravenberch, 90min understands.
The Reds infamously lost out on both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to big-spending Chelsea, denting Jurgen Klopp's plans to rebuild in the middle of the park.
Wataru Endo was quickly snapped up from Stuttgart in a deal that took many by surprise - the 30-year-old Japanese international penning a four-year contract at Anfield to help plug the sizeable gaps left by the departures of Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
But despite signing Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai earlier this summer, Liverpool still look a little light in terms of midfield options, and are keen to bring in another fresh face before the September 1 deadline.
90min has reported extensively on Liverpool's pursuit of Bayern midfielder Gravenberch, who is keen to leave Bavaria after becoming frustrated with his lack of first team opportunities. The 21-year-old has his heart set on appearing for the Netherlands at Euro 2024 but knows that the minutes afforded to him by Thomas Tuchel, and formerly Julian Nagelsmann, may cost him a place in Ronald Koeman's squad.
Gravenberch has communicated his desire to move to the Premier League, with Manchester United also interested in striking a deal this summer. But 90min understands that Liverpool's talks with Bayern are at a more advanced stage, and there's a feeling that the Bundesliga giants' stance towards a sale is softening.
Tuchel had wanted Gravenberch to remain at the club as a squad option, with the former Chelsea boss even keen to add another option on top. Yet Bayern may be now be tempted into parting company for just over £20m, which could represent a superb bit of business for Liverpool, United or any other interested party.
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Liverpool had also been talking to Fluminense about a deal for Brazilian midfielder Andre, but the player is committed to seeing through their Copa Libertadores campaign and a move will not go through this month.
Interest also remains in Borussia Monchengladbach's Manu Kone, who first emerged as a target before the summer transfer window had even opened. 90min understands that Liverpool are monitoring his availability closely, though a move is only likely to happen if Gladbach are prepared to lower their asking price.
The Reds' hierarchy are still discussing the possibility of signing a new defender, but will only look to act in the market if they feel the right player is available for the right price.
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This article was originally published on 90min as Liverpool receive welcome boost as Ryan Gravenberch talks continue.
