Liverpool’s Martin Zubimendi deal in danger from Real Sociedad ‘charm offensive’

Real Sociedad are trying to convince Martin Zubimendi to reject a summer move to Liverpool, a report has claimed.

The Reds are looking to add depth to their midfield options and have been linked with Zubimendi for several months.

90min revealed earlier this week Liverpool have stepped up their interest in the 25-year-old and their hopes of striking a deal are boosted by sporting director Richard Hughes having a good relationship with the player’s agent.

Zubimendi was also linked with Arsenal and Barcelona earlier this transfer window, but speculation over a summer exit from San Sebastian died down as it seemed he did not want to leave his home town and boyhood club.

But Liverpool have managed to turn Zubimendi’s head and The Times report that Real Sociedad have ‘launched a charm offensive’ to change his mind again.

Unlike Arsenal target Mikel Merino, Zubimendi has been included in Real Sociedad’s squad to face Union Berlin in a pre-season friendly on Friday, suggesting a deal with Liverpool is not imminent. The Reds could trigger the £51m release clause in his contract at any time, however.

Liverpool are hesitant over activating this clause as they would have to pay that sum in one instalment. The club are still hoping to boost their summer budget through player sales, with Tyler Morton available for £20m.

Zubimendi has only recently returned to training after taking part in Spain’s Euro 2024-winning campaign. He was not a starter for much of the tournament, but came off the bench to replace the injured Rodri in their 2-1 victory over England in the final.

Since breaking into the first team in 2019, Zubimendi has made 187 appearances for Real Sociedad, while he has been capped 10 times by his country.

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