Liverpool’s transfer activity this summer was notably quiet, with Federico Chiesa’s £12.5 million signing being the only significant addition to the squad.
According to Fabrizio Romano, one of Liverpool’s key targets priced himself out of a potential Premier League move, leading to this limited transfer activity.
Fans and the club alike were eager for a defensive midfielder, a position seen as crucial for bolstering the team.
However, despite efforts to lure Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Liverpool were unable to secure his services and opted not to pursue other alternatives. This left many supporters frustrated and concerned about the squad’s depth for the upcoming season.
Adrien Rabiot: The one that got away
Adrien Rabiot. Credit: Imago Images
Liverpool did explore the possibility of signing French midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who had decided not to renew his contract with Juventus, making him a free agent.
Rabiot’s versatility and experience in both attacking and defensive midfield roles made him an attractive option for Liverpool, especially given their need for a reliable number six.
However, the deal fell through as Rabiot chose to sign with Olympique de Marseille instead.
The French club confirmed the signing on their website, stating that Rabiot would join them pending a medical examination.
Their statement said: “Olympique de Marseille announces that it has reached an agreement in principle with Adrien Rabiot for the arrival of the French international midfielder at the club. The player will sign with OM subject to the result of the medical examination.”
This move came as a disappointment to Liverpool, who could have benefited from Rabiot’s experience and depth in midfield.
Adrien Rabiot. Credit: Imago Images
Fabrizio Romano revealed that Rabiot’s high wage demands were a significant factor in Liverpool and other Premier League clubs, like Manchester United, backing out of the deal.
Reporting for Caught Offside. the Italian said: “There were big, very big proposals from Turkey and Saudi but he only wanted to play in one of the European top leagues.
“The Premier League was his dream, but his salary requests were considered too expensive. OM have been excellent at working behind the scenes and getting it done for a reduced salary, convincing Rabiot of their project.”
Reports suggest that Rabiot wanted to be the second highest-paid player at Liverpool, just behind Mohamed Salah, a demand that neither club was willing to meet.
Liverpool’s midfield: Moving forward without Rabiot
Alexis Mac Allister. Credit: Imago Images
While Rabiot’s signing could have added depth to Liverpool’s midfield, Ryan Gravenberch has stepped up impressively in the number six role.
His man-of-the-match performance in his Champions League debut for Liverpool has shown that the Reds may not have missed out as much as initially feared.
Arne Slot may have missed out on Rabiot but with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai along with Gravenberch, he should be fine.
