Why Liverpool should prioritise signing Ederson ahead of teammate Koopmeiners | OneFootball

Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, according to Tuttosport.

The Reds have been linked with his midfield partner Teun Koopmeiners, who worked with Arne Slot at AZ Alkmaar, but they are now showing interest in Ederson.

Signing a new defensive midfielder should be a priority for sporting director Richard Hughes this summer. The club would be wise to secure a deal for Ederson before considering a move for Koopmeiners.

The Brazilian is a relentless destroyer who thrives on breaking up opposition attacks by any means.

He wins 1.08 aerial duels per 90 minutes, placing him in the 65th percentile for midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues.

His tackling – 2.32 per game, 72nd percentile – and interception – 1.40 per game, 85th percentile – are stellar.

He has an inexhaustible engine, running at the same intensity for 90 minutes of a game.

Ederson makes 1.43 blocks per 90 and wins the ball 5.1 times per game, establishing himself as one of Serie A’s best defensive midfielders.

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini used him to man-mark Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka in the Europa League final, which worked well.

The former Salernitana midfielder won eight of his 12 duels, putting in a tireless effort.

Ederson did not allow the Swiss metronome any space to operate, stifling him and helping his side clinch their first title under Gasperini.

He is the perfect foil for the more attack-minded Koopmeiners, and Liverpool need to secure his signature ahead of the Dutchman’s.

The Reds already have Mac Allister, Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch, Harvey Elliott and Dominick Szboboszlai in the central midfield slot.

They don’t desperately need another midfielder of that profile. The more pressing issue is signing a defensive midfielder to play deeper and shield the backline.

Ederson’s arrival at Anfield can provide much-needed steel for Slot’s side next season. His ability to win the ball, break up play and stifle opposition will allow Liverpool’s more attacking midfielders to flourish.

With several talented options at Slot’s disposal, adding Ederson would create a well-rounded midfield capable of dominating possession and protecting their defence.