Although Liverpool have been linked with a whole host of players over the course of the last month following what was a season to forget for the most part, a majority of those touted with a possible switch to Anfield all currently have one thing in common – participation in the Under-21 European Championships.
Taking place in Romania, the tournament got underway earlier this week and the likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Khephren Thuram, Manu Kone, Gabri Veiga and Micky van de Ven have already all represented their respective nations.
Two current familiar Anfield faces in the shape of Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones also played their part in a 2-0 win over the Czech Republic on Thursday evening, overcoming young Reds stopper Vitezslav Jaros in the process.
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As all and sundry continue to call for more transfers this summer to bolster Jurgen Klopp’s squad – no less than the first-team stars themselves in many cases – let’s take a look at how those linked with a move to Merseyside fared in the opening exchanges of the tournament with stats via Sofascore.
Netherlands 0-0 Belgium
Seemingly wantaway Bayern Munich midfielder Gravenberch played all 90 minutes of a goalless draw against Belgium despite an early booking. The 21-year-old made one key pass, had one shot on target and successfully completed 44 of his 49 attempted passes (Sofascore). Defensively the former Ajax sensation won two of four ground duels, one of two aerial duels and made two interceptions – highlighting why he could be an ideal fit for Klopp’s engine room midfield.
Meanwhile in the same game, Wolfsburg defender Van de Ven – heavily linked to the Reds due to his left-footedness, versatility and the obvious links to Jorg Schmadtke – enjoyed a stellar outing whilst helping the young Dutch side towards a clean sheet. The 22-year-old won his only ground duel, was accurate with 93 per cent of his passes and successfully completed one dribble to earn an impressive 7.30 rating.
Romania 0-3 Spain
Celta Viga revelation Veiga was a late entrance against the hosts following on from a remarkable breakout season that saw the attack-minded Spaniard score 11 goals and provided four assists in La Liga.
Almost certain to move on this summer due to a wholly affordable release clause set at €40million (£34.2m), Veiga is currently hot property, however, a cameo 16 minutes in a resounding victory is hardly likely to set tongues wagging. Perhaps soon to be managed by Liverpool favourite Rafa Benitez, on this occasion the Porriño-born gem could only muster 25 touches and one key pass – more to come as the competition goes on.
France 2-1 Italy
Now perhaps to one of the most talked about names in Liverpool circles this window, OGC Nice star Thuram. Playing alongside Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder and potential future Anfield teammate Kone, the pair helped France to a significant victory over a fellow big nation.
Thuram managed 64 minutes before being replaced, taking 43 touches, winning four duels and successfully completing all three of his attempted dribbles in the process.
Kone meanwhile enjoyed a slightly more eye-catching outing. Playing 85 minutes of a significant clash, the 22-year-old earned a 7.20 rating whilst providing 43 accurate passes, one interception, three tackles and four clearances in what was a superb opening display. The Bundesliga ace also pulled off three dibbles and won 11 duels in total to upstage his friend, possible future club teammate and compatriot Thuram on this occasion at least.
