Gravenberch shines as Liverpool beat Everton and contract talks loom

Ryan Gravenberch scored and set up a goal as Liverpool beat Everton 2-1 at Anfield on Saturday, and the Dutch midfielder’s performance has intensified interest in his future both at the club and beyond. The 23-year-old, who opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a header from Mohamed Salah’s cross and later provided the pass for Hugo Ekitike’s finish, has become central to Arne Slot’s midfield and is the subject of contract and transfer talk.

Gravenberch’s contribution helped extend Liverpool’s winning start to the season, a run that included five wins from five Premier League matches. The win was not comfortable; Everton pulled a goal back in the second half and pressed late, but Liverpool held on. Slot later revealed he had been planning to substitute Gravenberch after about 60 minutes, but abandoned the change when Everton scored, underscoring how integral the midfielder is to the side’s tactical balance. Slot also confirmed Gravenberch will be rested for Liverpool’s upcoming Carabao Cup tie with Southampton, along with several other key players.

Reports from Spain and elsewhere have linked Gravenberch with interest from Real Madrid, with one outlet saying coach Xabi...