What Liverpool now must do to sign Martin Zubimendi after entering talks - David Ornstein

08/07/2024 09:45 AM

After a long quiet summer, Liverpool seem to have identified Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi as their number one target for Arne Slot's new-look midfield.

This time last year, Jurgen Klopp was frustrated in pursuit of both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who both ended up choosing a move to Stamford Bridge over Anfield.

Instead, Liverpool settled on Wataru Endo, a more cost-effective alternative who enjoyed a steady first season in the Premier League.

That being said, Liverpool have reportedly rejected bids for Endo this summer, who they currently can't afford to lose given their lack of options in the number six role.

Endo hasn't necessarily impressed in pre-season, but he'll still be an important player for Slot unless an irresistible offer arrives.

That being said, Liverpool have identified Martin Zubimendi as their number one target this summer.

Journalist David Ornstein confirmed as in his report for The Athletic, stating that Liverpool had begun to explore a deal.

But after Zubimendi rejected Arsenal this summer, it shouldn't be a surprise that a deal could be difficult for Richard Hughes to execute. 

English clubs have already failed to sign Liverpool target Martin Zubimendi

Zubimendi was immense for Spain in the second half of their victory over England at the Euros, one of the only midfielders in Europe who can replace Manchester City's Rodri.

And when explaining the possibility of Liverpool completing a deal for the 25-year-old, Ornstein pointed out two stumbling blocks to overcome.

First of all, the fee attached to any deal.

Zubimendi has a £51.7m release clause that will need to be paid in full, with it seemingly unlikely that Sociedad would be willing to negotiate a lower price.

Secondly, it won't be easy to convince the Spaniard to leave his current club – as Arsenal have already found out.

According to reports, Zubimendi ignored a contract offer from Arsenal this summer, seemingly showing no interest in coming to England.

Ornstein mentioned that Arsenal and Barcelona have shown interest in Zubimendi in the past in his report, demonstrating the task at hand for Liverpool.

But with that in mind, it would be a huge coup were Slot able to convince the Spaniard to head to Anfield.

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