Liverpool should make late play for 'world-class' midfielder despite 'well-advanced' talks with Premier League rival - opinion
03/24/2025 04:00 PM
Arne Slot looks set for a busy second summer in charge of the Reds.
Liverpool are targeting five positions this upcoming window, with midfield reinforcements said to be high on the club’s radar.
Ryan Gravenberch has stepped up to the plate this season but has looked slightly leggy in recent weeks – suggesting the Reds need more cover in the middle of the pitch.
One player who will no doubt be on Liverpool’s list of midfield targets is Martin Zubimendi, having come so close to signing the Spaniard last summer.
Despite Liverpool failing to sign Zubimendi, the midfielder’s recent displays for Spain could tempt the Reds into reigniting their interest despite growing interest from fellow Premier League sides.
Reds target Martin Zubimendi shines for Spain
The Liverpool squad has looked jaded over the past month or so, with Slot’s reluctance to change costing them dearly in recent weeks.
With this in mind, Liverpool could have no doubt done with somebody like Zubimendi to ease the load on the Reds midfield.
The Real Sociedad star recently showcased what he could have brought to Anfield, in his recent performance for Spain in the UEFA Nations League.
Facing off against the Netherlands, the 26-year-old would impress up against the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo, helping Spain overcome the Dutch on penalties.
Zubimendi has previously been described as ‘world-class’ and those talents were on full show at the Mestalla.
The midfielder was very tidy in terms of possession completing 64 of his 66 passes on the night, but his off-the-ball work was actually the standout part of his game – something that will no doubt catch the attention of Reds boss Slot.
Liverpool must act quickly as Arsenal close in on Zubimendi
Having missed out on the Spaniard last summer, Liverpool won’t want to be making the same mistake this upcoming window.
The Reds however will have to act quickly if they want to avoid a repeat of last year, with Arsenal reportedly closing in on Zubimendi’s signature.
That is according to Spanish outlet AS, who claim the Gunners are ‘well advanced’ in the deal and are willing to meet the reported £50m buyout clause.
| Martin Zubimendi 24/25 stats | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes played |
| LaLiga | 27 | 2 | 2 | 2,239′ |
| Europa League | 8 | – | – | 603′ |
| Copa del Rey | 3 | – | – | 270′ |
With the Gunners seemingly closing in, what better way for FSG to kick off the summer window than to steal Zubimendi from underneath Arsenal’s noses?
