Liverpool hold a significant financial edge over Real Sociedad in the race for Martin Zubimendi
Liverpool are making significant strides in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as the Reds aim to bolster their midfield ahead of the new season. Despite an extensive overhaul last summer, the club is still focused on adding more depth to the middle of the park, with Zubimendi emerging as a top target for Arne Slot’s system. The Euro 2024 champion is seen as the perfect fit for the style of play Slot wants to implement at Anfield.
Speaking on the Men in Blazers podcast, Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Liverpool’s contract offer to Zubimendi far exceeds what Real Sociedad have put on the table to keep the Spanish international. This financial advantage, coupled with the allure of playing in the Premier League for a club with Liverpool’s rich history, gives the Reds a significant edge in the ongoing negotiations.
Real Sociedad are understandably keen to retain Zubimendi, a key figure in their midfield setup. The La Liga side has made a significant contract improvement in an attempt to persuade the 25-year-old to remain in Spain. According to journalist Jokin Aperribay, who has been closely following the situation, Sociedad’s proposal is a marked improvement on his current deal, reflecting the club’s determination to keep their star player.
However, Romano reports that despite Sociedad’s efforts, their financial package is “nowhere near” what Liverpool are offering. This disparity could prove pivotal as Zubimendi weighs his options, with Liverpool’s offer not just financially superior, but also offering the chance to play in one of the world’s most competitive leagues and be part of a historic football project.
“Real Sociedad spoke to the player and to his agent to present a new contract proposal. So Real Sociedad are fighting to keep the player at the club. But it’s also important to say that the financial proposal from Real Sociedad is nowhere near what Liverpool are offering to Martin Zubimendi.”
While finances do make a difference, Fabrizio also added that Liverpool are selling the historical perspective of what the club can offer as one of the game’s legendary institutions. With all due respect to Real Sociedad, the Reds are in another stratosphere and can offer Zubimendi both money and the chance of glory. A move to Anfield will open up new avenues for the player.
“Then it’s not just about money. Obviously, Liverpool are offering the history of the club, a big project, the possibility to play in the Premier League, but also in terms of financials, in terms of salary, Liverpool’s proposal is way better.”
The ball is now in Zubimendi’s court as he makes a decision on his future. Opportunities to move to a club like Liverpool do not come around very often and the 25-year-old will do well and follow in his idol Xabi Alonso’s footsteps.
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While Liverpool added Wataru Endo to their ranks during the 2023-2024 summer transfer window, the pursuit of Zubimendi shows the club’s commitment to finding the ideal midfield balance. Zubimendi’s ability to seamlessly link defence and attack has been on full display during his time at Real Sociedad and with the Spanish national team. His composure on the ball and tactical intelligence make him a perfect candidate for the style of football that Slot is eager to implement at Anfield.
As Liverpool await Zubimendi’s final decision, it’s clear that the club is prepared to go all out to secure his signature. With the financial backing and the promise of a central role in Slot’s project, Liverpool are well-positioned to bring the Euro 2024 champion to Merseyside. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Zubimendi will be the latest addition to Liverpool’s evolving squad, as the Reds continue to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.
