Liverpool recently faced a setback in their transfer plans as Martin Zubimendi decided to stay at Real Sociedad, rejecting a potential move to Anfield. This news came as a blow to the club, who had identified Zubimendi as a priority target after a slow start to the summer transfer window.
Initially, Liverpool had also shown interest in Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon, but the Magpies’ financial issues were resolved when they sold Yankuba Minteh to Brighton, making Gordon less likely to move. Despite this, Liverpool’s admiration for Gordon remained, but the focus shifted to Zubimendi in hopes of securing his signature.
After talks with Sociedad, Zubimendi ultimately decided to stay with his boyhood club, leaving Liverpool to look for other options in the midfield. While there are other midfielders available on the market, such as Adrien Rabiot and Youssouf Fofana, it seems that Liverpool are now shifting their focus away from strengthening that position with only three weeks left in the transfer window.
This decision to pursue a midfielder may have come as a surprise to some, considering the signings Jurgen Klopp made in that department last summer. Players like Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch were all brought in on permanent deals, giving Klopp a strong midfield lineup.
With the confirmation of Zubimendi’s choice, Liverpool can now turn their attention to other areas of the team. The attacking department seems well-stacked despite the departure of Fabio Carvalho, and there is sufficient cover in defense as well. This leaves the club with the opportunity to address any long-term issues that may arise.
One player that Liverpool is reportedly considering is Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili, with talks ongoing for a potential deal worth around £25.7 million. Mamardashvili could be loaned out if an agreement is reached, as Liverpool looks to plan for the future, especially in the goalkeeper position with Allison approaching 32 years old.
Overall, while the Zubimendi rejection may have been a setback, it has allowed Liverpool to reassess their transfer priorities and focus on areas of the team that may need strengthening in the long term. Klopp and the recruitment team will continue to work on securing new additions before the transfer window closes.
