Liverpool echo journalist Ian Doyle believes that Liverpool will return for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi if he is available. The Reds failed to sign Zubimendi during the summer after the 25-year-old opted to stay loyal to his childhood club.
Liverpool have started the season strongly under new head coach Arne Slot, winning their first nine out of 10 games. Slot has installed a new tactical style of play that focuses more on controlling the game and having patience accordingly.
Liverpool required a different style of defensive midfielder during the Jurgen Klopp era compared to the desired profile right now. Slot has deployed Ryan Gravenberch in the number six role during the start of the season and he didn’t disappoint.
The 22-year-old has established himself as the primary defensive midfielder under the new tactics that suit his style of play. Wataru Endo is Gravenberch’s deputy at the club but faces uncertainty over his future due to a vastly different profile.
While Endo suited the direct style under Klopp that left a lot of space in defence of a player of his profile to cover, the situation is different under Slot. The Dutch head coach demands his number six to capably control the game and dictate the tempo in possession.
Nevertheless, the Japan captain has done well for Liverpool whenever he earned the chance to play. However, there is a high possibility of Liverpool recruiting a new number six that suits Slot’s profile and challenges Gravenberch.
Doyle told the Blood Red Podcast that Liverpool could pursue Zubimendi again if he wants to leave Sociedad in January. He said:
“If Zubimendi wants to leave Real Sociedad in January I think Liverpool would try to sign him. We know they have the money there for him, I don’t know what the deal is with the release clause there, £51m is it? If he fancies it, Liverpool quite clearly will go in for him.”
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Sociedad have started their La Liga season terribly, currently at 15th position and eight points behind the top four. They have also not provided Zubimendi with any lucrative offer despite his decision to stay put and help the club.
