Liverpool Star is ‘Not Leaving’ Despite Real Madrid Transfer Reports – Journalist | OneFootball

Why Ryan Gravenberch’s Agent Was Right to Speak His Mind

Recent comments from Ryan Gravenberch’s agent, Jose Fortes Rodriguez, sparked mild concern among Liverpool fans – but only for those who didn’t read between the lines. In a revealing interview with Marca, Rodriguez reflected on the midfielder’s journey and potential, mentioning that he would “love for him to play” for Real Madrid.

Understandably, eyebrows were raised. But context is everything. As highlighted by Lewis Steele in his piece for The Daily Mail, this was “speaking in hindsight” – not a declaration of intent or a nudge towards the Bernabéu.

Rodriguez clarified: “When Ryan was 16, Barcelona called us. They wanted to sign him, but his father and I prioritised his development.” It’s an important quote that reframes the conversation. This is a retrospective view of a career arc – not a transfer request.

More to the point, Rodriguez acknowledged the reality: “Liverpool would ask for a lot of money. I know they’ve had their eye on him, but now it’s impossible.” That’s a line Liverpool fans can underline with relief.

Photo: IMAGO

Agent’s Perspective, Not Player’s Position

It’s crucial to distinguish between an agent sharing personal admiration for a club and a player being unsettled. Rodriguez’s comments seem more about his own longstanding views than any dissatisfaction within the Gravenberch camp.

The phrase “he’s good enough for Real Madrid” isn’t controversial – it’s flattering. Liverpool supporters should take pride in such high praise. Gravenberch has shown flashes of brilliance this season under Arne Slot, and it’s clear his ceiling is sky-high.

Importantly, Steele notes that “Gravenberch is going nowhere” and underlines that Rodriguez was “merely talking about his own feelings about Madrid”. The player himself has said nothing to suggest any desire to leave Merseyside.

Liverpool’s Stance is Unmoved

There’s been no noise from inside the club suggesting any openness to a deal. The Dutchman, who joined from Bayern Munich in 2023, is still settling into the rhythms of Premier League football and developing under a new manager.

Liverpool are focused on building a younger, energetic midfield – Gravenberch is central to that project. He’s already integrated well, showing versatility and technical quality in both box-to-box and deeper roles.

Photo: IMAGO

As for any potential Madrid interest, it’s likely historic rather than current. Rodriguez said: “I know they’ve had their eye on him”, which suggests interest from years past rather than current dialogue. Liverpool, who secured him at a cut-price fee, are unlikely to entertain any conversations unless an astronomical offer materialised – and even then, it’s unlikely.

Long-Term Vision Under Slot

In many ways, this is a non-story that has only become newsworthy because of the names involved – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Liverpool. But there’s no rift, no agent manoeuvring, and no dressing room unrest.

Arne Slot, just months into his reign, is shaping the side with Gravenberch as one of its pillars. The club’s midfield reboot is still in its early stages, and patience is being rewarded with steady improvement.

Rodriguez’s honesty might be unusual in the age of media-trained ambiguity, but it’s not malicious. It’s human. And ultimately, harmless.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, there’s nothing here to fear – in fact, there’s a lot to feel good about. The truth is, when agents start touting their players for Real Madrid, it’s usually because they know those players are good enough. That’s a sign of success, not failure.

Gravenberch has been one of the more promising additions since the summer shake-up and has shown flashes of elite-level ability. He’s still young, still learning the English game, and still improving – but you can see why top clubs took note years ago.

And let’s not forget: “now it’s impossible” – those were Rodriguez’s words, not a journalist’s spin. Liverpool hold the cards here. Under Arne Slot’s guidance, Gravenberch could become a cornerstone of the next great Reds side.

So rather than panic, it’s better to enjoy the fact that we’ve got a player worthy of Madrid’s admiration – and be grateful that he’s wearing our shirt. This is a player with Champions League pedigree, who chose Liverpool for his development. We should back him fully, let him grow, and maybe even watch him become one of the league’s best in red.

In short, nothing to see here – except another young talent fulfilling his promise at Anfield.