Liverpool could return for Zubimendi despite summer snub

Liverpool could return for Martin Zubimendi if he indicates a willingness to move, according to a report.

The Real Sociedad star decided to snub Premier League interest once again this summer despite initially looking set to depart his boyhood club. Liverpool had made an approach and Erreala expected Zubimendi to agree to the move.

However, the LaLiga side launched a charm offensive and actually managed to convince the 25-year-old Spain international to stay in his hometown, much to the surprise of the Reds.

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Earlier in the year, Arsenal had also attempted to persuade the Basque star, but despite broadly agreeing on contract terms, he ultimately decided to break off all communication with the Gunners, leaving them frustrated and unwilling to make fresh contact when the window opened.

The midfielder recently broke his silence on the matter, stating: “For me, Real Sociedad is my life, I think I’ve spent half my life there. A large percentage of who I am is part of Real Sociedad, it’s my life.”

Liverpool could return

Nevertheless, Liverpool could return for Zubimendi in the future, according to Ben Jacobs. This, however, is entirely contingent on the player indicating that he would now actually be willing to move.

The journalist states that Liverpool won’t waste their time launching another pursuit unless they get a clear sign from Zubimendi that he wants to join. The Spaniard was the only midfielder the Anfield club were willing to chase this summer, but they are not expected to make a fresh approach in January.

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The summer could be a different story if Zubimendi, for example, refuses to extend his contract. The 25-year-old is still tied down until 2027 and fitted with a €60 million release clause that is seen as value for money.

A new contract would likely entail an increase in his release clause, but if he were to refuse to pen fresh terms, it would be an indication that he would potentially entertain a move away.

Jacobs points to the Reds’ pursuit of Ryan Gravenberch as proof that Liverpool are no strangers to playing the long game in the transfer market. After missing out on the Dutchman to Bayern Munich in 2022, they ended up signing him a year later and he is now a key player under Arne Slot.