Liverpool’s pursuit of Martin Zubimendi has unexpectedly hit a roadblock, with the Spanish midfielder reportedly deciding to remain at Real Sociedad. This surprising twist comes after weeks of speculation and intense interest from the Reds, who had been viewed as the frontrunners to land Zubimendi.
Liverpool were reportedly ready to activate the player’s £51.7 million release clause to bring him to Anfield. Early reports suggested Zubimendi was eager to make the switch to the Premier League. However, Real Sociedad have been determined to keep hold of their star midfielder, intensifying their efforts to convince him to stay in Spain.
One key factor in Zubimendi’s decision was reportedly Real Sociedad’s insistence that he would need to personally trigger his release clause if he wished to leave. Faced with this situation, the midfielder has now made a dramatic U-turn, opting to continue his career with the La Liga side.
This development is a significant blow to Liverpool, who were close to securing Zubimendi as the solution to their ongoing search for a defensive midfielder. The Reds have been actively looking for a long-term replacement for Fabinho, who moved to Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League last summer. Although Liverpool brought in Wataru Endo as a short-term fix, new manager Arne Slot reportedly does not see him as a long-term solution in the role.
Zubimendi, who impressed during Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, was viewed as the ideal candidate to anchor Liverpool’s midfield moving forward. With this transfer now on the verge of collapse and the Premier League season just around the corner, Liverpool may have to enter the new campaign without securing their top target for the number 6 position.
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