Liverpool's ideal long-term partner for Gravenberch has become clear after what happened this weekend - opinion

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Liverpool may have lost to Crystal Palace, but Ryan Gravenberch continues to be a silver lining in their team.The Reds had their Federico Chiesa equaliser cancelled out by Eddie Nketiah’s strike in the last minute of the game after a very dominant display from Palace.It was not a performance that Arne Slot will look back on in a positive light; instead, it will be a wake-up call after the opening games have seen Liverpool struggle to maintain dominance.However, there are saving graces from this Palace display in the midfield, with Dominik Szoboszlai once again showing his versatility and dependability as Gravenberch continued to prove he is world-class.On the surface, it did feel the Dutchman had not done much of note, but digging into the statistics, it seems that he was better than first anticipated, putting in the performance of the day alongside Alisson Becker.Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty ImagesAdam Wharton should be signed as Ryan Gravenberch’s midfield partnerAgainst Oliver Glasner’s side, he won all of his ground and aerial duels, making five clearances and two interceptions along the way to be a solid defensive force in the No. 6 role.Gravenberch has shown this season that he will be a figurehead of this team as they continue to try and retain their Premier League title, but thinking ahead to the next few years, he does need a partner.There was one player on the opposition team who, if Liverpool signed, would be the perfect addition alongside the 23-year-old.READ MORE: Danny Murphy highlights unique Ryan Gravenberch trait which makes Liverpool star one of the bestAdam Wharton, who has been a standout player in his No.

6 role with Oliver Glasner’s side, proved again why any of the supposed Big Six clubs should get his signature and fast.Wharton created two big chances while finding four key passes during the game, which makes him a dangerous player against any club and a brilliant creative force.His defensive attributes are known; he only lost possession eight times during the game while winning the majority of his ground duels.In general, the Englishman has been consistent, and if he and Gravenberch were to play in a double pivot, it could be one of the best in the league.They are two professionals who bring an assurance to the middle of the park while also bringing a willingness to create for their team going forward; Liverpool cannot go wrong.His £60 million price tag is right for his known quality and the standard for many great players in the transfer market.Dominik Szoboszlai will still have a place in the teamThe worry for any fan would be how to fit Szoboszlai into the team, but in all honesty, he can play anywhere across the midfield and right back.Szoboszlai at right-back would not be the first choice for fans; however, his performances there have been exceptional, so it would not be a bad idea.Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty ImagesThe Hungarian’s best use is obviously in the midfield roles, and he still has a place there.It is something to look out for, but Wharton should be on the list next to new centre-back options to keep this team challenging for all the trophies.