Liverpool are keen to secure the signing of Martin Zubimendi, but Real Sociedad are pulling out all the stops to keep him at the club, according to the latest Liverpool transfers update from The Times journalist Paul Joyce.
Liverpool have been relatively quiet in the transfer market this summer but are actively pursuing a midfield reinforcement. The Reds are determined to bring Martin Zubimendi to Anfield as the first signing in the Arne Slot era.
Liverpool Transfers: Zubimendi Interest Confirmed
Real Sociedad are fighting to keep hold of Zubimendi amidst strong interest from Liverpool. The Spanish club are trying to convince the midfielder to extend his stay, but the Reds see him as their top midfield target and are prepared to trigger his £51m release clause.
While Wataru Endo provided a stopgap solution for Liverpool’s defensive midfield last summer, the club views Zubimendi as a more long-term option. The 25-year-old’s experience in possession-based football with both Spain and Real Sociedad makes him an ideal candidate for Arne Slot’s intended playing philosophy at Anfield.
Reliable sources claim that Zubimendi likes Slot’s Liverpool project and is seriously considering making a switch. The Reds have held encouraging talks with the midfielder and his representatives and are making progress in their pursuit to bring him to Anfield.
Why Liverpool Want Zubimendi
Liverpool’s pre-season tour to the United States highlighted a competition for the number six role. Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch were all given opportunities to impress, but despite being Liverpool’s most natural defensive midfielder, Endo struggled to cement his place in the starting lineup.
The inconsistent performances in the number six role have highlighted the need for a reliable defensive midfielder. Liverpool have identified Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as their primary target, with a £51.6 million release clause. This pursuit underlines the club’s desire for a modern holding midfielder who excels both defensively and in possession.
The days of the purely defensive number six are long gone. Modern football, especially at the highest level, demands a midfielder who can not only break up play but also dictate the tempo. A player capable of initiating attacks and retaining possession under pressure is now essential. Slot’s emphasis on passing accuracy and quick distribution during training underlines this shift towards a more possession-oriented style.
Liverpool have shown a real commitment to building attacks from deep in their pre-season friendlies. This requires every player, particularly the number six, to be calm and composed on the ball. Slot sees the defensive midfielder as a key role in this system. He is responsible for playing through the opposition and maintaining possession under pressure.
Martin Zubimendi is the perfect modern number six. At Real Sociedad, he’s thrived as the anchor of their midfield diamond. He dictates play, always offers a safe passing option, and is remarkably calm under pressure. Zubimendi’s football intelligence shines through – he finds space effortlessly and makes smart decisions with the ball.
Convincing Zubimendi to leave Real Sociedad appeared to be a tough task, since he has been there since he was twelve and is incredibly loyal. Despite this, Liverpool’s interest shows they believe he could be a game-changer in their midfield.
But, according to the latest Liverpool transfers developments, Liverpool are close to convincing the player.
