'SPECIAL' Liverpool target DAZZLES with AMAZING performance against £200m duo

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. 

Arne Slot has unlocked a different beast in the Dutch midfielder and his impact on the team only continues to grow. 

Read more: Liverpool poised to pounce on Mo Salah successor following manager bust-up 

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. 

Baleba unveils his promise

Carlos Baleba’s influence for Brighton and Hove Albion so far this season has been monstrous. 

Baleba signed for the South coast club in 2023 from Lille for a reported £23.5 million; a hefty price tag for  a young player. His debut Premier League stint wasn't one to shout about putting in mediocre performances in Roberto De Zerbi's farewell season.

However this year, the 20-year-old Cameroonian looks so confident and assured in the Seagulls midfield, and this was highlighted during his performance against Chelsea on Saturday. 

Brighton did end up losing the game 4-2, however Baleba was a standout gem in a tough afternoon for Fabian Hurzeler’s men. 

His stats were phenomenal. Brighton’s number 20 was directly involved in both his team's goals, scoring one and assisting the other. Further to this, he completed a pass accuracy of 91%, won 8 ground duels and completed 4 tackles. 

Baleba was everywhere on the pitch. He looked confident with the ball at his feet, unfazed by pressure with a drive to push up the pitch when necessary. 

After his performance, Brighton journalist, Ryan Adsett waxed lyrical about him, describing the midfielder as 'special.'

This will have Slot turning his head and recognising the young talent’s prospects. Baleba has shown the same tenacity and drive that Gravenberch has this season; wanting to prove a point that they are ready to conquer the league.

Although Gravenberch has mighty impressed so far, Baleba’s natural position is the number six and this could be an interesting long term investment for Liverpool. 

Slot and his team will most likely be closely monitoring the future performances of the Brighton starlet.