According Caught offside, Liverpool and Arsenal are willing to spend £50 million to secure the signature of Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi in the next transfer window.
The Spanish star was Reds manager Arne Slot's top target last summer. The Anfield giants were prepared to activate their buyout clause. 60 million euros (£50m) at the time, but in the end the transfer did not materialise.
The 25-year-old was given the green light to leave the La Liga side but decided to stay at the club. This has not ended speculation about his future and Caught offside They affirm that the Society is willing to listen to offers this winter.
Liverpool and Arsenal, his long-time admirers, are willing to pay £50m for the defensive midfielder, but the price is likely to be closer to £60m. Zubimendi's release clause might not be active until the summer judging by the update.
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Liverpool were determined to sign Zubimendi's services last summer, but the midfielder made a U-turn, having initially considered the move. The decision has turned out to be a blessing in disguise for them, as Ryan Gravenberch has stepped up.
The Dutch ace was far from his best in his debut campaign, but has been outstanding from the No. 6 spot under Slot. The midfielder has been an omnipresent figure in the center of the park and has stood out in almost all outings.
Despite the positives, Slot may want strong competition for places as a drop in Gravenberch's form could directly affect their league title prospects. Zubimendi would be a superb signing due to his strong tackling skills, aerial presence and hold-up play.
He 'world class'ace has earned more than 2 tackles and 2 clearances per game this season with 4 recoveries on average, according to sofa score.
Liverpool will look to bring him to Anfield at their second request, but Arsenal could provide stiff competition. The Gunners' interest in the player dates back to the 2022/23 season and they have not been able to convince him to leave his childhood club.
If Zubimendi finally makes the decision to leave the Basque Country, Arsenal would undoubtedly make an effort to sign him. He could be the perfect successor to Thomas Partey, who is likely to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer.
