Liverpool are closing in on their first signing under new manager Arne Slot, with the club optimistic Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi will agree to a move to Anfield.
According to Paul Joyce from The Times, Liverpool believe Zubimendi will push for a move to the club.
The Euro 24 winner has a release clause worth £51 million and would need to be paid in one installment, with Sociedad keen to keep the player for one more season.
🚨 Real Sociedad expect Martin Zubimendi to accept move to Liverpool, according to #Sociedad sources. Clubs would still need to agree fee, unless #LFC decide to trigger €60m release clause – which needs to be paid in full. W/ @GuillermoRai_ @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/2ygZ2a7QaI
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 7, 2024
The 25 year-old has been sensational in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League for Sociedad and showed his quality coming off the bench to replace Rodri in the Euro 24 final.
Zubimendi is a world class receiver and distributor of the ball, with his ability to hold possession under pressure from the opposition and keep the ball moving among the best in European football.
This is what has made him a priority target for Arne Slot, who does not believe current defensive midfielder Wataru Endo can handle an opposition press as effectively.
Some data from Zubimendi’s 22/23 season.
Can’t stress enough how impressive the defensive/aerial duel numbers are. Excellent showing in PAdj interceptions as well.#LFC pic.twitter.com/8b2SD0CKFc
— Evan (@SawkurGod) August 7, 2024
An aspect of Zubimendi’s game that could definitely improve is his athleticism, he is not as dominant physically as midfielders like Declan Rice and Rodri but he does show promise with his ability in aerial duels and recovery runs.
Liverpool’s squad is still one of the strongest in the league despite Jurgen Klopp’s exit and with a player like Zubimendi who would fit into Arne Slot’s style of play incredibly well, it could be a great addition that keeps the Reds competitive for the upcoming Premier League and UEFA Champions League campaigns.
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