The Liverpool midfield so far this season has performed exceptionally well with some players making their presence known. 
After the transfer window disappointment this summer where the Reds failed to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Ryan Gravenberch was given the responsibility to fill the defensive midfield role and he has passed this test with flying colours.
However, the performance of one Premier League player this weekend was eye-opening, and with the midfielder having been previously linked to Liverpool, Slot may consider him as a long-term option in the middle of the park.
Carlos Baleba’s influence for Brighton and Hove Albion so far this season has been monstrous looking confident and assured in the Seagulls midfield, and this was highlighted during his performance against Chelsea
Liverpool want Branthwaite as Van Dijk replacement
Liverpool’s centre-back partnership is flourishing right now, but there is fear on the horizon that the house of cards could come tumbling down if Van Dijk were to leave Anfield.
The Daily Mail are reporting that Liverpool are willing to beat Manchester United for the signing of Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Red Devils had a £50m bid rejected for Branthwaite in the summer, with Everton reportedly eyeing at least £70m for the player. If the situation with van Dijk is deteriorating, Liverpool could move for Branthwaite in January to get ahead of any other potential suitors.
Branthwaite’s contract on the blue side of Merseyside runs until summer 2027, however with Everton in dire straits on the pitch and facing turmoil off it – and an American takeover aiming to offset the costs of the new Bramley Moore Dock Stadium – becoming a regular starter at Anfield could be enough to tempt Branthwaite across Stanley Park.
