Liverpool target Martin Zubimendi has made transfer stance clear after Man Utd links

Liverpool are reportedly exploring a move for Martin Zubimendi, but they may face an uphill battle to sign the Real Sociedad star. The 25-year-old defensive midfielder was a stalwart in La Liga during the 2023/24 campaign, playing 31 games under Imanol Alguacil and helping his side to a respectable sixth-place finish.

His form continued with Spain during the Euro 2024 this summer, featuring in the side’s 1-0 group stage win over Albania, and coming on as a substitute during their 2-1 final victory over England. Zubimendi’s impressive year has seemingly caught the attention of new Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who desparately looks to strengthen his midfield ahead of the new campaign.

According to The Athletic, the Reds are looking into a deal to sign Zubimendi, who has a £51.7million release clause in his contract. However, acquiring the midfielder’s services could prove tricky for anyone at present, including Liverpool.

Zubimendi admitted earlier this summer that he sees himself remaining at Sociedad next season, potentially scuppering a move before it’s had a chance to get off the ground. Speaking during Euro 2024, he told El Diario Vasco, via ED: “Where am I going to play next season? I’m going to be at Real Sociedad.

“I have a contract with Real Sociedad and that’s where I’m most comfortable.” Zubimendi rose through the youth ranks of Real Sociedad in 2016, after moxing from from Antiguoko in 2011. He spent two years in the club’s C team before being promoted to the B team in 2018 – but in 2019, he was called up to represent Real Sociedad at the highest level in La Liga.

The youngster, who is now approaching his peak, has made 144 league appearances for Sociedad – netting seven goals despite predominantly being a number six. And while convincing Zubimendi to part ways with the only professional club he has known could be a tough task in itself, his €60million (£51.7m) release clause could also proved to be a stumbling block.

Liverpool aren’t the only ones who have shown interest in Zubimendi this summer. Arsenal and Manchester United have also both been linked with a move as they bid to bolster their respective squads.

United have already acquired the services of Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro in the transfer window, but they still have work to do if they want to improve on a dismal eigth-place finish last season. They are also thought to be looking at PSG star Manuel Ugarte and free agent Adrien Rabiot.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have brought in Riccardo Calafiori and David Raya.They are understood to be long-term admirers of Zubimendi but appear to be closer to wrapping up a move for his Sociedad team-mate Mikel Merino.