Liverpool’s admiration for Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi remains as strong as ever, with reports suggesting the Reds are ready to reignite their pursuit of the Spanish international in January.
Amid growing excitement over Arne Slot’s extraordinary start at Anfield, securing Zubimendi could provide the final piece in Liverpool’s midfield puzzle.
Under Slot, Liverpool have soared to the top of the Premier League and Champions League standings. Winning 17 of their 19 matches this season, the Reds have dropped just five points in domestic competition and remain the only side with a perfect record in Europe’s elite tournament. The Dutchman has breathed new life into the squad left behind by Jürgen Klopp, achieving these feats with only one major summer addition: Federico Chiesa.
Why Zubimendi Fits Slot’s Vision
According to renowned journalist David Ornstein, Zubimendi’s profile aligns perfectly with Slot’s tactical requirements. Writing for The Athletic, Ornstein detailed why Liverpool pursued the 25-year-old during the summer transfer window and why their interest has not waned. “Liverpool felt Zubimendi had the ideal skillset for what Slot wants in a No.6,” Ornstein noted. “Their admiration for the Spain international remains strong.”
Liverpool were reportedly willing to meet Zubimendi’s €60m release clause, and personal terms had already been agreed. However, the deal fell through, with Real Sociedad allegedly pressuring their homegrown star to remain at the club. While the Basque side disputes this version of events, the midfielder ultimately stayed put.
Slot’s admiration for Zubimendi stems from his technical proficiency, tactical intelligence, and composure under pressure—qualities that could make him a transformative addition to Liverpool’s midfield. Despite Ryan Gravenberch’s impressive performances this season, Zubimendi offers a skillset uniquely tailored to Slot’s demands, particularly in high-stakes encounters.
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Liverpool Ready to Test Real Sociedad’s Resolve Again
With the January transfer window looming, reports suggest Liverpool are gearing up for another attempt to bring Zubimendi to Anfield. Sources have revealed that the Reds believe they have a “very good chance” of landing the Euro 2024 winner this time around.
The club’s hierarchy has assured Slot that funds will be available for squad strengthening, should he identify priority targets. And with Liverpool competing on four fronts, the addition of Zubimendi would bolster their depth and provide the tactical versatility needed to maintain their momentum in the second half of the season.
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Carragher’s Call: “Do It!”
Club legend Jamie Carragher has also weighed in on Liverpool’s pursuit of Zubimendi, urging the Reds to seize the opportunity. Carragher emphasized the importance of capitalizing on the team’s current position in the league.
“If I was Liverpool, I would be doing that [strengthening in January],” Carragher declared. “Slot might never be in this position again—nine points clear of Arsenal and five ahead of City. You don’t want to look back and think, ‘What if?’”
Specifically addressing Zubimendi, Carragher was unequivocal: “If he’s the player you want—go and do it. You might never be in this position again. City are City, and they won’t stay behind for long. Just make it count.”
Real Sociedad and Player Reluctance: Genuine Barriers or Negotiation Tactics?
While Zubimendi has publicly denied regretting his decision to reject Liverpool in the summer, speculation persists that he remains open to a Premier League move. His loyalty to boyhood club Real Sociedad is commendable, but Liverpool’s resurgence under Slot may prove too tempting to resist this time.
The Reds’ dominance across competitions, coupled with their ambitious long-term vision, could sway Zubimendi. With Arsenal and Manchester City also reportedly interested, Liverpool must act decisively to secure his signature before the competition intensifies.
Liverpool’s Broader Transfer Picture
While Zubimendi remains the focal point, Liverpool’s January plans may extend beyond midfield reinforcements. Reports suggest the club is also eyeing potential moves for left-back options, with Milos Kerkez and Matteo Ruggeri among the names being monitored. However, any defensive additions are likely to be secondary to the priority of landing Zubimendi.
Meanwhile, speculation over the futures of key players such as Trent Alexander-Arnold adds an undercurrent of urgency to Liverpool’s transfer strategy. Keeping the squad intact while making targeted upgrades could prove critical as the Reds push for silverware on multiple fronts.
A Statement of Intent
Securing Zubimendi would signal Liverpool’s intent to re-establish themselves as the dominant force in English and European football. With Slot already proving himself as a transformative manager, the addition of a world-class holding midfielder could elevate the Reds to an even higher level.
As the January window approaches, all eyes will be on Anfield to see if Liverpool can turn their admiration for Zubimendi into a tangible signing. If successful, it could be the move that defines their season—and perhaps their future.