Liverpool transfers: Zubimendi gives answer as Reds talk to Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has given his blessing for a move to Liverpool with the two clubs now locked in negotiations over the fee. 

That’s according to the latest report in Relevo, which claims the Reds are mulling over whether to pay the €60 million buyout clause in the Spain pivot’s contract or else pay MORE in instalments for a payment structure which would be more favourable to their accounts. 

Zubimendi, 25, has been back in training with his club since Monday, being put through his paces by coach Imanol Alguacil, but hopes are fading in San Sebastian that the player will be with them for the season ahead. 

Read more: How Zubimendi signing will impact Liverpool

Having lost Robin Le Normand to Atletico Madrid and with the imminent departure of Mikel Merino - probably to Arsenal - it promises to be a summer of historic transfer income at the Anoeta Stadium. 

Liverpool have begun their assault for Zubimendi and ARE willing to pay the clause, according to Spanish media, as they seek a long-term solution for the No.6 position.

New head coach Arne Slot appears to have made his assessment of the midfielders at his disposal with the likes of Wataru Endo, Curtis Jones, Stefan Bajcetic and Tyler Morton his options in the deeper midfield position. 

Zubimendi ready to say YES to Liverpool

Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai are likely to feature further forward for the Dutchman and it is likely that a senior midfielder will be recruited for the back of midfield. 

Zubimendi has now emerged as the most realistic candidate with Anfield Watch first reporting Liverpool’s interest as far back as February 2024. 

The Euro 2024 winner is ready to say YES to Liverpool if an agreement can be reached over the fee with the No.4 keen on a transfer to the Premier League at this stage of his career. 

Arsenal and Barcelona wanted Zubimendi

Barcelona under Xavi Hernandez wanted to sign Zubimendi as a long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets but were unable to get a deal over the line while Arsenal are also credited as long-time suitors for the schemer. 

 He is under contract until 2027 but those terms are unlikely to prove a deterrent to Liverpool as they seek to make their first signing of the summer. 

Real Sociedad for their part have already made moves to safeguard against losing midfielders this summer with Croatian Luca Susic arriving from Red Bull Salzburg. 

The ground would appear to be prepared in San Sebastian for the latest high-profile departure.