Liverpool academy graduate compared to Franck Ribery as Prem clubs urged to make bids
Pundit Owen Hargreaves has lauded former Liverpool man Ryan Kent after the winger’s exceptional display against Borussia Dortmund on Thursday.
Kent came through Liverpool’s academy before going out on loan to several clubs. He spent time at Barnsley, Freiburg and Bristol City in a bid to gain more senior experience.
The Englishman would only make one appearance for the Reds before leaving for Rangers on loan in July 2018. The Scottish outfit made his transfer permanent the following summer for £7.5million.
Kent’s influence at Rangers has gradually increased each season and he had a great campaign in 2020-21. The wide man registered 13 goals and 15 assists in all competitions as The Gers lifted the Scottish Premiership title. They also went unbeaten under then manager Steven Gerrard.
Kent featured in last night’s impressive 4-2 victory over Dortmund in the Europa League round of 32.
He played a huge part in Rangers’ third goal, twisting and turning away from two players before setting up John Lundstram. The central midfielder did the rest, curling into the far corner on his left foot.
Kent also won the ball back for his side in the build up to their fourth goal, which went in off BVB defender Dan-Axel Zagadou.
Ryan Kent receives high praise
While reacting to the top-class performance from Kent, Hargreaves urged Premier League clubs to sit up and take notice.
He said on BT Sport (via the Liverpool Echo): “I love watching Ryan Kent, technically he’s absolutely brilliant. It looked like Franck Ribery when he used to do it for Bayern.
“Absolutely exceptional with the ball at his feet. Running at players is his greatest attribute.
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“He shocked everyone there. Dortmund won’t have known much about him, but in the changing room, they’ll be asking who he is.
“Premier League clubs will be looking at him. He caused so many issues for Dortmund.”
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Liverpool in four-club race for Bayern star
Meanwhile, Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly part of a four-club race to sign a Bayern star who is ‘nowhere near’ agreeing to a new contract.
According to HITC, who cite German outlet Kicker, Germany international Serge Gnabry is some way off finalising a new Bayern deal.
The 26-year-old is out of contract next year and Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic is working hard to tie him down. But Gnabry is yet to receive an offer which meets his demands.
A separate report from Sky Germany states Liverpool and United are chasing his signature. They believe it can be obtained for a reduced price given his situation.
However, it is not just Premier League clubs on the hunt. Spanish titans Barcelona and Real Madrid are also monitoring developments ahead of the summer.
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