Martin Zubimendi 'makes decision' on joining Liverpool as Reds push for transfer

Liverpool target Martin Zubimendi is said to be keen to secure a move to Anfield after helping Spain to Euro 2024 glory last month. The 25-year-old has spent his entire career at Real Sociedad and starred as his team reached the last-16 of the Champions League last season.

Liverpool are yet to make any signings after appointing Arne Slot as their new boss earlier this summer.

But they are attempting to secure a deal for Zubimendi ahead of transfer deadline day at the end of the month.

According to Sky Sports in Germany, Zubimendi wants to join Liverpool immediately, with talks ongoing as the Reds push for a transfer. But it’s unclear whether Liverpool intend to pay the player’s £51million release clause or whether they would prefer to negotiate a lower transfer fee.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, has claimed the Spaniard is really tempted by the prospect of moving to Anfield as the midfielder believes the opportunity would be special for his career.

But the situation is complicated as his current employers are working hard to convince him to remain where he is and have presented their ideas for the new campaign.

Zubimendi made his Sociedad debut in April 2019 as he came off the bench in a 2-1 La Liga victory against Getafe. He has gone on to make 188 appearances for his side, contributing eight goals and seven assists.

Zubimendi has travelled to Germany with the La Real squad as his team prepare to face Union Berlin in a pre-season friendly on tonight (Friday). He featured on the Spanish club’s social media graphic as manager Imanol Alguacil confirmed his squad for the encounter.

During the Euros, the midfield genius had announced that he planned to stay in Spain this summer as he stated: “This season I will continue at Real. I have a contract. It is the place where I feel most comfortable, so no problem.”

But Liverpool could pounce in the coming days despite him rejecting the possibility of a move to Arsenal this summer.

Slot’s side are set to host Sevilla in their final friendly of the summer on Sunday after overcoming Real Betis, Arsenal and Manchester United during their pre-season tour of the USA.

The Reds will kick-off their Premier League campaign when they travel to Ipswich on Saturday, August 17.

They will then host Brentford in their first home clash of the new season ahead of a trip to Old Trafford at the start of September.