“It sounds pretty good” – Liverpool in contract talks with key duo | OneFootball

Liverpool Contract Talks Highlight Need for Stability in Turbulent Title Defence

Liverpool’s Premier League title defence has unravelled at alarming speed, with five defeats in six league games transforming a campaign of promise into one defined by concern. Yet as David Lynch explained when speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, the club’s off pitch priorities could prove just as decisive as anything unfolding on matchdays. The discussions involving Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch are now gathering pace at a moment when Liverpool can ill afford further uncertainty.

Contract Momentum for Key Midfielders

Lynch’s assessment of the situation struck a notably optimistic tone. He said, “It sounds pretty good at the moment.” He also explained that “A few weeks ago, it didn’t seem like there was massive progress with Gravenberch but perhaps we’re in that time of year where talks commence.” That shift matters. Both players have been among the few to emerge with credit during Liverpool’s slide, offering energy, ambition and resilience while results have collapsed around them.

Szoboszlai in particular has been central to what Liverpool have attempted to build under Arne Slot, showcasing creativity and athleticism that have elevated him into one of the most dependable figures of a difficult season. As Lynch put it, “Szoboszlai has been absolutely unbelievable this season, so it would be great to get him tied down.” Bringing security to his future would signal intent and help restore confidence that Liverpool remain committed to constructing a long term midfield core.

Gravenberch’s Ceiling and Liverpool’s Long Term Vision

If Szoboszlai represents the reliable present, Gravenberch is the high ceiling project whose development could define Liverpool’s next phase. Lynch noted that “Gravenberch has even more levels to go to, so that is also really important.” His progress since arriving has been encouraging and the promise of further growth makes it essential that Liverpool take decisive action.

The club cannot drift into familiar pitfalls. Letting Trent Alexander Arnold depart for Real Madrid last summer caused significant upheaval and follows a pattern that has lingered since Gini Wijnaldum left for PSG in 2021. With Ibou Konate now entering the final seven months of his deal and attracting attention from Madrid as well, the club faces a strategic crossroads.

Avoiding Repeat Mistakes

Lynch warned that “Liverpool really need to get ahead of these contract situations because we’ve seen the chaos that they can cause in recent seasons.” This is a moment that demands assertive leadership. Slot may be tasked with addressing the immediate on pitch problems but Liverpool’s hierarchy must prevent a repeat of destabilising departures.

Securing Szoboszlai and Gravenberch would represent an important step towards re establishing continuity at a time when results have eroded momentum. There is an opportunity here to reinforce the spine of the side and send a message that the club intends to rebuild with clarity, rather than react to crisis.

The title may already be beyond reach, however Liverpool can still take control of their future. Acting swiftly with these contract talks would be a strong place to start.