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Liverpool and Manchester United have had a bitter rivalry for years on the pitch, and tensions may continue to grow off it, too.
The Reds’ season has been a huge juxtaposition to the Red Devils’ after winning a 20th league title and matching their record, with their early transfer business suggesting that they are not finished just yet.
Jeremie Frimpong is already through the door at Anfield and he may be joined by his old Bayer Leverkusen teammate very soon, with Liverpool set to smash their club-record fee to sign Florian Wirtz.
Despite being levels apart on the pitch and Liverpool enjoying a hugely successful spell over recent years, Man United still have a strong level of pull-power and are eyeing up some big names this summer.
However, the Reds may be looking to inflict more misery onto their rivals and steal a £50m target from under their noses.
Manchester United are in desperate need of reinforcements and their midfield appears to be a key area they are looking to refurbish, with Atalanta’s Ederson seemingly being a top target.
As a quality defensive midfielder, it is no surprise that United are vying for his signature, but with Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch having a standout year, questions may be raised as to whether the Reds also need him.
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According to GIVEMESPORT, however, Liverpool may be looking to take advantage of the Red Devils’ financial problems and hijack their planned move for the 25-year-old.
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Atalanta would reportedly want around £50m for one of their star men, a hefty fee given Arne Slot’s option in this area of the pitch.
READ MORE: Liverpool look set for two more blockbuster signings after Arne Slot makes private promise to Florian Wirtz
Wataru Endo’s future is certainly unclear, although there are suggestions he will stay, meaning that Liverpool could have three holding midfielders at one time, something that might actually benefit Gravenberch after his breakout campaign.
Gravenberch was phenomenal in the first half of the season and has been unplayable on his day.
But the Dutchman did struggle to maintain this form as the campaign went on due to the sheer number of games he was playing.
Despite Endo being available as a back-up option, Gravenberch has impressed many this season and played all bar one Premier League game, as well as nine Champions League fixtures, a big contrast to being a bit-part player under Jurgen Klopp.
Towards the end of the year, the fatigue was noticeable, suggesting that if his minutes can be managed, Liverpool could have a real powerhouse in the middle of the park for years to come.
Therefore, signing Ederson may not be a bad idea in terms of squad depth, and Liverpool fans will likely welcome this move if it means they get one over their fierce rivals, while also preserving one of their most important players.
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