Who is Mikel Jauregizar? The Reds' target who's BETTER than Ryan Gravenberch | OneFootball

Who is Mikel Jauregizar?

The scorer of Athletic Bilbao’s only goal in the second-leg of their Europa League semi-final tie against Manchester United, Jauregizar is known for his elite tackling and has found himself on Liverpool’s radar.

The 21-year-old has become a real force in Athletic Club’s team this season, starting the majority of the side’s games in all competition.

After showing glimpses of brilliance last campaign, in which he made 10 appearances, Jauregizar has cemented his place as a first team regular this season – with 44 appearances under his belt.

Jauregizar’s finish from outside the area against Manchester United earned him plenty of praise from TNT Sports’ commentary team, with Darren Fletcher describing the strike as ‘an absolute beauty’.

How would Jauregizar fit at Liverpool?

The Spain U21 international ranks in the 95th percentile for tackles per 90 minutes among other midfielders from Europe’s big five leagues with 3.27 per 90. He also ranks in the 75th percentile for aerial duels won per 90 against his positional peers.

For reference, Jauregizar has actually bettered Ryan Gravenberch’s 2.14 tackles per 90 this season.

Jauregizar would be a dominating presence at the base of Liverpool’s midfield, and could offer some much needed cover for Gravenberch who has started all but seven of the Reds’ matches this season.

Transfermarkt value the 21-year-old at €20 million (£17m) but, with multiple years remaining on his current deal, it is unclear how much Athletic Club would want to let one of their key midfielders leave this summer.

As well as his top-level defensive contributions, Jauregizar boasts a very decent attacking output this season, with three goals and three assists so far.

His finish against the Red Devils on Thursday will have shown Liverpool’s scouts exactly what the 21-year-old can offer going forward.