By Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has decided to remain with his current club, turning down a transfer offer from Liverpool. The Spain international, who had a £51m release clause, was anticipated to leave Sociedad this summer. Despite the Reds’ interest, Zubimendi has opted to sign a new contract with increased wages to stay with the Basque team.
Liverpool, still the only Premier League club without any summer signings, will now have to consider alternative midfield targets. New head coach Arne Slot has several options in midfield, including Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Sobozslai, and Wataru Endo. Right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold was also frequently used in midfield under previous manager Jurgen Klopp.
Zubimendi, who played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory over England, has been with Sociedad since 2011 and was instrumental in their sixth-place finish last season.
Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures under Slot include a trip to Ipswich Town, a match against Manchester United, and challenging encounters with Chelsea and Arsenal. The first Merseyside derby of the season will be at Goodison Park on December 7, with Liverpool hosting Manchester United on January 4 to start the new year. The season will conclude with matches against Chelsea, Arsenal, and Crystal Palace in May.
