Liverpool and Manchester United have been dealt a major blow following reports that Bayern Munich midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is 'off-limits' this summer.
Jurgen Klopp has endured a tumultuous campaign in Merseyside and is eager to refresh his ageing midfield at the end of the season.
After withdrawing from the race to sign Borussia Dortmund Jude Bellingham, the Reds boss has turned his attention to Gravenberch, with the player's father allegedly having held talks over a potential move to Anfield.
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Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag is thought to be in the market for midfield recruits, having struggled in the absence of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen towards the back end of this season.
The Red Devils boss knows Gravenberch well from his time managing Ajax, when the 20-year-old was coming up through the academy ranks.
However, journalist Christian Falk has revealed both clubs will be better served looking elsewhere, with Bayern Munich unwilling to let him go this summer.
Gravenberch 'off-limits'
Speaking to Caught Offside about Manchester United, Falk explained the club would be better off trying to sign Marcel Sabitzer on a permanent basis, instead of 'pursuing targets like off-limits Ryan Gravenberch'.
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Indeed, Bayern's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic continues to insist that Gravenberch is not for sale.
In contrast, Liverpool have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Gravenberch, after holding talks with the midfielder's father in Holland, according to The Times.
The report states that he should cost around £25 million, a significantly cheaper alternative to Bellingham, who is expected to cost in excess of £100 million.
Gravenberch has struggled for regular game time in a Bayern shirt, having been limited to just 18 Bundesliga appearances, with 17 of those coming off the bench.
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Discussing his future in an interview with Ajax Showtime, the midfielder said: "Ideally, I would like to be successful at Bayern.
"But if that doesn't work out and I don't get a chance, then I might have to look around."
Topics: Liverpool, Manchester United, Ryan Gravenberch, Bayern Munich, Football, Transfers