‘Did not impress’: National media slams Liverpool and Chelsea linked talent

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Liverpool and Chelsea target Ryan Gravenberch was in action for Holland last night as they drew 2-2 with Scotland ahead of Euro 2020.

He started the game as a substitute but still played over an hour after replacing Gini Wijnaldum early on.

The Ajax midfielder is viewed as one of his country’s next big talents; although he perhaps didn’t showcase as much last night.

Coming on in his usual central midfield role, he struggled to impose himself on the contest.

In truth it was a frustrating night for the Dutch who could have lost to an organised Scotland side.

Gravenberch’s club form has seen Liverpool and Chelsea show interest in the £26 million player ahead of the summer window.

The Premier League duo saw some flaws in his game last night though – as highlighted by the Dutch media after the game.

Football-Oranje gave the player a 5/10 for his efforts and felt obliged to slam one aspect of his game.

The leading Dutch football website wrote in their player ratings piece: “A great talent but the midfielder did not impress after coming on in the first half. Lost the ball far too often. Needs to concentrate more.”

Gravenberch interest: Liverpool and Chelsea must tread carefully

Clearly one game doesn’t make the Dutch wonderkid a bad player – but Chelsea and Liverpool would be wise to think their interest through.

Both clubs might be in the market for more polished performers during the summer.

The 19-year-old scored five goals and claimed six assists in Holland last season but the Premier League would be a step up.

Liverpool in particular will need a player capable of replacing his compatriot Wijnaldum this summer.

As a result, they’ll want someone to go in and player in excess of 30 games in their first-team over the next season.

Chelsea do have more midfield options but Thomas Tuchel will want to challenge for the title.

Therefore any player he signs will need to improve his starting eleven.

At this stage, Gravenberch perhaps isn’t that man and after fluffing his lines against the lowly Scotland outfit, the Premier League duo might require a rethink.