Man Utd & Liverpool to battle for two midfield transfers as target makes ‘first choice’ known

Manchester United and Liverpool could battle it out to sign midfielders Sofyan Amrabat and Ryan Gravenberch during the final weeks of the transfer window, according to reports.

Both clubs are interested in adding a midfielder to their ranks in the coming weeks, and United have identified Amrabat as a long-term target. But for the Red Devils, they need to sell before buying in the window and although Fred has departed, Harry Maguire’s move to West Ham United has stalled, and there’s no update on outgoing transfers for Dean Henderson, Scott McTominay, Donny van de Beek and Anthony Martial.

Meanwhile, Liverpool’s high-profile pursuits of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia have ended in frustration, with the Merseyside club reportedly close to wrapping up a deal for Stuttgart captain Wataru Endo.

But Liverpool do hold an interest in Amrabat and could strike if his switch to Old Trafford is held up any longer. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claimed on Twitter that Liverpool are ‘informed’ on the Moroccan’s situation. He added that no formal bid has yet been made as Liverpool ‘are still exploring the market’ in their search to sign a new holding midfielder.

Meanwhile, reporter Alfredo Pedulla has suggested that United remain Amrabat’s first choice and he would only be interested in a move to Anfield if Erik ten Hag changed his mind on bringing the Fiorentina star to Manchester.

Pedulla adds that Bayern Munich youngster Ryan Gravenberch would also be interested in joining United, who have contacted the German champions about a possible transfer. Liverpool had an offer turned down earlier this summer for the 21-year, who worked with Ten Hag at Ajax. Gravenberch is said to be keen on leaving Bayern, with AC Milan among the interested clubs.