Liverpool’s decision on Martin Zubimendi transfer urged as Slot offers January opportunity
Liverpool finds itself in a predicament as the shadow of Martin Zubimendi continues to loom over the club. The Spaniard has been linked with a move to Anfield for months now, following a failed transfer from Real Sociedad at the last minute. Despite Liverpool’s efforts to convince Zubimendi to join their project under Arne Slot, the midfielder ultimately decided to stay at his boyhood club after a late charm offensive from Sociedad.
Zubimendi’s contract with Real Sociedad is set to expire in June 2027, and he still has a release clause worth €60m (£51.7m), a sum that Liverpool was willing to trigger in the summer transfer window. Now, with the January transfer window approaching, the question remains whether Liverpool should revisit a deal for Zubimendi.
Ian Doyle, a journalist at the ECHO, believes that the chances of Zubimendi joining Liverpool in January are slim. He points out that the midfielder put the club in a difficult position by rejecting their offer last month. Doyle emphasizes that transfers are often about timing, and it seems that Zubimendi’s opportunity to move to Liverpool has passed.
On the other hand, Joe Rimmer argues that while it may seem logical for Liverpool to pursue Zubimendi in January, it may not be the best course of action. He questions the reports suggesting that Zubimendi regrets his decision to stay at Real Sociedad and highlights that Liverpool may have other priorities in the upcoming transfer window.
Kieran Horn echoes Rimmer’s sentiments, noting that Zubimendi’s previous rejection of Liverpool, as well as the emergence of Ryan Gravenberch in the holding role, may deter the club from pursuing the Spaniard in January. Horn suggests that Liverpool’s focus should be on strengthening their defense rather than midfield.
However, Jake Stokes offers a contrasting view, advocating for Liverpool to make a move for Zubimendi in January. He sees the midfielder as a key addition to Liverpool’s squad, especially in the pursuit of major trophies. Stokes emphasizes the importance of securing a top-quality holding midfielder to compete at the highest level.
Isaac Johnson also makes a case for Zubimendi’s transfer to Liverpool, highlighting the midfielder’s potential to fill a crucial role in the team. He points out the lack of a true pivot in Liverpool’s midfield and suggests that Zubimendi could be the solution to this problem.
Tom Coley emphasizes the importance of finding the perfect No.6 for Liverpool to elevate their game. He acknowledges the challenges in convincing Zubimendi to join the club but believes that the midfielder’s skill set aligns with what Liverpool needs in their midfield.
As the discussion around Martin Zubimendi’s potential transfer to Liverpool continues, it remains to be seen whether the club will make a move for the midfielder in the January transfer window. While opinions vary on the feasibility and necessity of signing Zubimendi, one thing is clear – Liverpool’s decision on the matter will have significant implications for their future success on the pitch.