Liverpool’s Midfield Revamp: Morten Frendrup on the Radar

Liverpool’s quest to bolster their midfield has taken an intriguing turn. With a defensive midfielder being a top priority for the Reds this summer, the focus has shifted towards Genoa’s Morten Frendrup. The 23-year-old Danish talent has caught the eye of Liverpool scouts, leading to speculation about a potential bid. This article delves into the details of Liverpool’s interest in Frendrup and what he could bring to the squad.

Morten Frendrup: A Rising Star in Serie A

Morten Frendrup’s rise in Serie A has been impressive. Since joining Genoa from Brondby in 2022, he has become a key player for the Italian side. Frendrup made 37 league appearances in his debut season, helping Genoa finish eleventh after gaining promotion back to the top flight. His performances last season have further solidified his reputation as a formidable midfielder.

What Makes Frendrup a Good Fit for Liverpool?

Frendrup operates primarily in the number 6 position, a role Liverpool is keen to reinforce. Known for his tough tackling and box-to-box capabilities, Frendrup’s defensive contributions could complement Liverpool’s existing midfield options. His ability to read the game and his work ethic are qualities that manager Arne Slot will find appealing.

According to GiveMeSport, Liverpool scouts have been monitoring Frendrup for several months, and the club’s interest is reportedly growing. The Danish midfielder’s profile aligns with the Reds’ need for a robust defensive presence in the middle of the park.

Competing Interests and Potential Challenges

While Liverpool’s interest in Frendrup is serious, they are not the only Premier League club eyeing the Dane. Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur have also shown interest, making the competition for his signature fierce. Genoa values Frendrup at around £21 million, a figure Liverpool would need to meet to secure his services.

The Serie A side is under no pressure to sell, which could complicate negotiations. However, Liverpool’s need for a defensive midfielder and Frendrup’s potential fit within the squad might push the Reds to make a decisive bid.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index

Morten Frendrup has emerged as a notable figure in Genoa’s midfield, and his performance data over the last 365 days offers valuable insights into his potential impact on the pitch. The statistical analysis provided by Fbref highlights Frendrup’s strengths and areas for improvement, making him an intriguing prospect for clubs like Liverpool.

Defensive Prowess

One of the standout features of Frendrup’s game is his defensive capabilities. The chart shows that he excels in blocks and tackles plus interceptions, ranking in the 98th and 90th percentiles, respectively. This demonstrates his exceptional ability to disrupt the opposition’s play and regain possession, which is crucial for a defensive midfielder. His aerial prowess is also noteworthy, as he ranks in the 61st percentile for aerial duels won, further solidifying his presence in defensive situations.

Offensive Contributions

While Frendrup’s primary role is defensive, he does offer some offensive contributions. His non-penalty expected goals (npxG) and expected assisted goals (xAG) place him in the 29th percentile, indicating moderate offensive involvement. Notably, he has a 75th percentile ranking in assists, which suggests he can contribute to creating goal-scoring opportunities. His ability to balance defensive duties with occasional offensive forays makes him a versatile asset.

Possession and Distribution

Frendrup’s possession metrics reveal room for growth. His pass completion rate is in the 51st percentile, while his progressive passes and carries are in the 33rd and 38th percentiles, respectively. These stats suggest that while he is competent in maintaining possession, there is potential for improvement in advancing the ball and creating play from deeper positions. Enhancing these aspects of his game could elevate Frendrup’s overall effectiveness and make him a more well-rounded midfielder.

Overall, Morten Frendrup’s performance data paints the picture of a highly capable defensive midfielder with a solid foundation and areas to develop further. As Liverpool continues to scout potential signings, Frendrup’s blend of defensive strength and emerging offensive skills makes him a compelling option for bolstering their midfield.

Other Midfield Targets: Martin Zubimendi

Liverpool’s pursuit of a new midfielder isn’t limited to Frendrup. Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi remains a top target for the Reds. The Spanish midfielder has been linked with a move to Anfield throughout the summer. However, Liverpool appears to be keeping their options open, which explains the scouting of Frendrup.

New manager Arne Slot has spent time assessing his squad during the pre-season tour in the United States and seems ready to make moves in the transfer market. Strengthening the midfield is a clear priority, and both Zubimendi and Frendrup are on Liverpool’s radar.

The Impact of a New Midfielder

Adding a player like Frendrup could significantly impact Liverpool’s midfield dynamics. His defensive prowess would provide much-needed stability, allowing more creative players like Thiago and Henderson to flourish further up the pitch. Additionally, Frendrup’s work rate and tactical awareness could see him become a fan favourite at Anfield.

Liverpool’s Strategic Approach

Liverpool’s approach to the transfer market under Arne Slot appears calculated and strategic. By identifying multiple targets and keeping options open, the club is positioning itself to adapt to the complexities of the transfer window. Whether it’s Zubimendi or Frendrup, securing a quality defensive midfielder will be crucial for Liverpool’s aspirations in the upcoming season.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As an ardent Liverpool supporter, the prospect of adding Morten Frendrup to the squad is intriguing. His profile as a tough-tackling, hardworking midfielder fits the mould of what the Reds need in the middle of the park. Given Liverpool’s history of nurturing young talents, Frendrup could thrive under the guidance of Jurgen Klopp and his team.

The reported interest from other Premier League clubs should not deter Liverpool. Instead, it should accelerate their efforts to secure his signature. With the transfer window ticking down, the Reds must act swiftly and decisively. Frendrup’s valuation at £21 million seems reasonable for a player of his potential, especially considering the inflated prices in today’s market.

While Martin Zubimendi remains a tantalising option, having a backup plan in Frendrup is a smart move. His performances in Serie A demonstrate that he can compete at a high level, and his addition would undoubtedly bolster Liverpool’s midfield depth.

Liverpool fans should be optimistic about the club’s transfer strategies. The careful scouting and consideration of multiple targets reflect a well-thought-out approach to building a competitive squad for the future. Whether it’s Frendrup or Zubimendi, the Reds are on the right track to strengthening their midfield and continuing their pursuit of silverware.