'People I've spoken to': Liverpool insiders think there's a new plan for Zubimendi next summer - journalist
Today at 03:00 PM
The improvement in Liverpool’s midfield has been one of the most impressive facets of their season so far.
The Reds had looked in need of bringing some fresh blood into the middle of the pitch over the summer after a disappointing end to last term.
However, Ryan Gravenberch has stepped up majestically, announcing himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
Gravenberch’s form has eased the blow of Liverpool missing out on signing Martin Zubimendi over the summer.
Arne Slot pinpointed Zubimendi as his ideal midfield addition but the 25-year-old ultimately decided that he simply couldn’t leave boyhood club Real Sociedad for Anfield.
Links have continued to suggest that Liverpool might return for Zubimendi in January. But according to journalist Graeme Bailey, a new plan for the Spaniard has started to emerge.
Martin Zubimendi heading to Real Madrid
Liverpool have not missed Zubimendi at all so far this season. However, there’s still little question that the Basque schemer would have been a really good signing.
Slot clearly doesn’t fancy Wataru Endo for what he wants from his No.6 and as a result the Reds are a little thin in terms of squad depth.
Because of this, many supporters would welcome a return to try and sign Zubimendi either in January or next summer.
But speaking exclusively to Rousing The Kop, transfer expert Bailey has claimed that Liverpool now believe the plan for Zubimendi is to join Real Madrid along with manager Xabi Alonso next summer.
READ MORE: Liverpool ready to offer new contract to Ibrahima Konate
“Arsenal and Liverpool think he’s going to Real Madrid,” says the reporter.
“Their sources believe he’s heading to Real Madrid next summer, probably with Xabi Alonso and probably as Luka Modric’s replacement.
“People I’ve spoken to at Liverpool believe the underlying reason he rejected them is because he wants to go to Real Madrid next year rather than because of his total love and committment to Real Sociedad.”
Time to move on for Liverpool
With Bailey also confirming that Endo could leave Liverpool in January, it looks possible that the Reds are still plotting a move for a new midfielder.
And while Zubimendi had looked perfect for Liverpool, it is now clear that a transfer for the Euro 2024 winner will not be reprieved.
It will sting for fans if Zubimendi does indeed end up at Madrid next summer – especially alongside Alonso – but it is no longer our business.
Instead, it’s time to move on from Zubimendi and get fully behind Gravenberch and whoever may arrive to play second-fiddle.
It could have been great, but this should be seen as a loss for the player himself, not for Liverpool.
