Background of the Target
Liverpool have set their sights on Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi to become their first major signing under new head coach Arne Slot. The need to bolster the squad with a new No.6 emerged earlier this week, and the Euro 2024 winner has been identified as a viable candidate.
Competition and Interest
Zubimendi has been a target for Arsenal over the past 12 months and has also attracted interest from Manchester United. However, United have shifted their focus to other targets, including Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte, leaving Liverpool in a strong position to secure the playmaker.
Challenges in the Deal
While Liverpool are keen on Zubimendi, securing the 25-year-old is not straightforward. He has a buyout clause of €60 million (£51.7 million), which must be paid in full by the player to release himself from his contract. This typically involves the buying club transferring the funds to the player or his representatives, who then pay the league to release the player’s registration.
Zubimendi’s Stance
Zubimendi has previously expressed his commitment to Real Sociedad, stating during Euro 2024 that he plans to stay at the club where he feels most comfortable. His statement to El Diario Vasco emphasized his intention to remain with Real Sociedad, adding complexity to Liverpool’s pursuit.
Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy
The move for Zubimendi would mark the first significant business for Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes. Hughes indicated that July would be quiet due to ongoing international tournaments, but he expects transfer activity to intensify in August, potentially culminating in securing Zubimendi’s signature.
Liverpool are determined to fill the void left by Fabinho’s departure 12 months ago, and Zubimendi’s acquisition would address this critical need in their squad.