Liverpool are eyeing a move for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubumendi as they prioritize signing a midfielder, 90 min you understand.
Zubimendi has a €60m (£51.7m) release clause in his contract and the 25-year-old Spaniard has always shown he is happy at Real Sociedad, turning down the chance to join Arsenal in the past.
Liverpool believe they can change his mind and talks are being helped by the fact that new sporting director Richard Hughes has a strong relationship with Zubimendi’s agent, Inaki Ibanez.
What makes Zubimendi attractive is that he is calm and comfortable on the ball under pressure and can play as a deep-lying player.
Liverpool are likely to buy the midfielder abroad in this transfer window as they believe there is better value for money away from the Premier League.
The Reds have taken some time to assess their needs in the transfer market. After completing the pre-season tour of the USA and with key players returning to training following participation in international competitions, Arne Slot now gives Hughes an idea about the team his disposal.
Liverpool are also keeping a low profile and took the time to ensure they were not blindsided by senior players leaving, instead looking to keep their core team together.
They have discussed Manuel Ugarte of Paris Saint-Germain, who has a similar price to Zubimendi, but they don’t see him having the same passing ability.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson was also discussed at the start of the window, although sources say reports that a deal was close were too wide. Meanwhile, the Reds were still considering their internal options and drawing up plans for the upcoming window, but Liverpool are now ready to dip their toes into the market.
Within the Premier League, Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes has been reported, as has Anthony Gordon, but Liverpool do not see the need to make a bid. Now that Guimaraes’ release clause has expired and Newcastle are believed to be in compliance with the PSR, suitors are realizing that the Brazilian cannot be secured on the cheap.
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