Manchester United is heading into a critical phase as the summer transfer window inches closer to closing in just over a week, and Erik ten Hag’s focus seems to be honing in on the midfield.

but Gravenberch is firmly on Man Utd’s radar

So, what’s the latest regarding Ryan Gravenberch’s potential move to Manchester United? According to Samuel Luckhurst, a reporter from Manchester Evening News, there’s contemplation within the Red Devils’ camp about making a last-minute approach for Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch, who previously played under Ten Hag at Ajax.

Gravenbech is another version of Bellingham

Additional information from TEAMtalk suggests that United is giving priority to securing Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat, but Gravenberch is firmly on their radar. Apparently, the Bundesliga champions are willing to let him go for a fee of €35m (£29m). With the acquisition of Mason Mount for £55m to bolster the midfield this summer and Fred’s departure to Fenerbahce, the stage seems set for another standout player to step up and solidify their role.

So, what’s the deal with Ryan Gravenberch’s skill level? Gravenberch moved to Munich a year ago from Ajax for a fee that could rise to €24m (£20m). Back in his homeland, he was lauded as “indispensable” for Ajax by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Gravenberch earned acclaim for being “outstanding,”

During his time at Ajax, Gravenberch earned acclaim for being “outstanding,” as former Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidžić praised. He made 103 appearances for Ajax, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists. His significant contributions helped secure three league titles and two KNVB Cups.

However, his experience at the Allianz Arena has been quite different. He started just three Bundesliga matches last season and even began the 2023/24 campaign as an unused substitute for the first two matches.

He’s just an unused substitute for Bayern Munich

Despite residing on the fringes of the Die Roten squad, he ranks impressively among the top midfielders across Europe’s major leagues. He’s in the top 7% for shot-creating actions, top 19% for progressive passes, top 18% for successful take-ons, and top 17% for tackles per 90, according to FBref.

He could be a better version of Fred for Utd.

Interestingly, FBref’s statistical model compares him to Jude Bellingham, who recently moved to Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund for €103m (£88.5m). Bellingham is regarded as one of football’s brightest talents and has been hailed as a “generational talent.” He’s excelling in La Liga with three goals and an assist in two matches, ranking among the top 1% of midfielders for various metrics.

Both Bellingham and Gravenberch exhibit creativity and technical prowess. While Bellingham’s stats might overshadow Gravenberch’s in several aspects, it’s crucial to consider that the Dutchman’s role has been peripheral, preventing him from fully showcasing his skill set.

Both Bellingham and Gravenberch exhibit creativity and technical prowess

Referred to as a “monster who’s extremely comfortable on the ball” by Born ‘n Red contributor Asim, Gravenberch could potentially solve Ten Hag’s puzzle as he seeks to strengthen Manchester United’s midfield and pave the way for success. Given the reasonable transfer fee, this move appears to be a logical step forward.