Martin Zubimendi is expected to swap Real Sociedad for Liverpool (Image: GETTY)
Real Sociedad are bracing themselves for the potential departure of Martin Zubimendi to Liverpool, according to reports. But the Merseyside club still have to agree a fee with his club unless they wish to trigger his buyout clause.
The Spanish midfielder, who has been on the radar of several Premier League teams including Arsenal, had planned on staying in San Sebastian, particularly with Champions League football on offer.
However, Liverpool’s interest has now intensified with Arne Slot looking to make Zubimendi his first signing at Anfield.
The 25-year-old reportedly has a release clause set at £51million, but it’s uncertain if a lower sum could also secure his services.
The Athletic suggest that Real Sociedad expect Liverpool to sign the player but state that a fee still needs to be agreed – or the Premier League giants must pay the £51m sum.
Zubimendi’s representatives have a strong connection with Liverpool’s transfer guru Richard Hughes, which could play a role in any negotiations if they wish to agree a lower fee.
Interestingly, the same agency represents Andoni Iraola, who was appointed Bournemouth’s manager when Hughes was part of the club.
Zubimendi’s contract runs until 2027, so there’s no immediate pressure for Real Sociedad to sell. Yet, should Liverpool trigger his release clause, the decision would then be out of the Spanish club’s control.
It is said they are willing to let him leave should he express a wish to move to Merseyside after five seasons as a first-team regular at Anoeta.
Liverpool have kicked off their pre-season tour of the United States with a perfect record, winning all three matches as new manager Arne Slot’s tactics start to pay dividends.
The ex-Feyenoord manager is rumoured to be eyeing several potential recruits, yet he remains adamant that any new arrival must possess exceptional talent.
Martin Zubimendi could cost Liverpool £51million (Image: GETTY)
“We have so many good players so it is not so easy to first find a player to meet those standards and then is he available?” Slot remarked.
“Then we have to find an agreement with them, so it is not always easy to find a player who can help us but Richard is working hard on it and let’s see what comes from this.”
After finishing third in the Premier League last term, Liverpool will kickstart the 2024/25 campaign against the newly-promoted Ipswich Town.
Prior to that, the Reds face Sevilla and Las Palmas in friendly encounters on August 11.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1933466/Martin-Zubimendi-to-Liverpool-transfer