The Martin Zubimendi saga could be far from over for Liverpool

The Martin Zubimendi saga could be far from over for Liverpool this summer

In what has been a frustrating summer for Liverpool, the club may yet have a glimmer of hope in their pursuit of Real Sociedad’s midfield star, Martin Zubimendi. Despite earlier reports suggesting that Zubimendi had rejected a move to Anfield in favour of staying at his boyhood club, recent comments from Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil have left the door slightly ajar for a last-minute twist.

Liverpool, the only club in Europe’s top seven leagues yet to make a signing this summer, have seen their transfer plans derailed despite their readiness to meet Zubimendi’s €60 million (£51.1 million) release clause. The Reds, who agreed personal terms with the player and offered a lucrative contract, were left shocked and disappointed when the Euro 2024 winner decided to remain at Real Sociedad.

Journalist Simon Hughes revealed (h/t TEAM talk), that Zubimendi had informed his family of his intention to stay in Spain as early as August 5th. This decision reportedly left Liverpool’s hierarchy frustrated, especially given the late timing of his decision, which disrupted their plans for the midfield reinforcement they so desperately needed.

The Martin Zubimendi saga could be far from over for Liverpool this summer.

A Surprising Twist?

However, the saga may not be over just yet, according to TEAMTalk. In light of Liverpool’s persistent interest, Alguacil, who initially praised Zubimendi for his loyalty, has now refused to rule out a last-minute change of heart. Following Sociedad’s 2-1 defeat to Rayo Vallecano, Alguacil admitted that the situation remains fluid and that a late move could still be on the cards.

“This happens every year [teams coming for their players], to everyone, to all the managers and sporting directors,” Alguacil said. “And I won’t even tell you [about] if Zubimendi leaves or not last minute… They are all unreal players. …Liverpool was willing to pay Zubimendi’s clause.”

Liverpool’s Lucrative Offer

Liverpool’s pursuit of Zubimendi has been marked by a willingness to go above and beyond to secure the player. According to Mundo Deportivo [Image inserted], the Reds offered the Spanish international a contract worth three times his current salary at Sociedad. The proposed deal would have made Zubimendi one of the top earners at Liverpool, with a weekly wage just shy of £150,000, placing him among the club’s top five earners.

Despite this, Zubimendi’s decision to stay at Sociedad was seen as a testament to his loyalty and love for the club, much like Steven Gerrard’s famed devotion to Liverpool. However, with Alguacil’s recent comments, there is renewed speculation that the midfielder could still be tempted to make the switch to Anfield.

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While Liverpool wait to see if the Zubimendi transfer can be resurrected, manager Arne Slot remains focused on the squad at his disposal. After a solid 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town in his Premier League debut, Slot expressed confidence in the quality of his players but hinted that the club would remain open to further additions if the right opportunity arises.

Liverpool’s need for a strong No.6 remains pressing. Last season, the club relied on makeshift solutions, with Wataru Endo and Alexis Mac Allister filling in as defensive midfielders. The potential addition of Zubimendi, or a suitable alternative, would provide the solidity and depth Liverpool need to challenge on all fronts this season.

The Zubimendi saga has been filled with twists and turns, and while the odds may seem slim, the renewed hope from Alguacil’s comments offers a glimmer of possibility. However, given how the player went back on his word, it remains to be seen if the Reds are ready to forgive and forget.