Real Sociedad boss still has Martin Zubimendi fear after Liverpool decision

Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil has suggested he is still fearful of losing Martin Zubimendi despite the midfielder rejecting a move to Liverpool.

This week saw the Reds, who are the only Premier League club yet to make a signing this summer, knocked back in their attempts to land the Spain Euro 2024 winner despite their being a degree of confidence over a £51million transfer.

New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot admitted his disappointment at not being able to land Zubimendi, having identified the 25-year-old as a player to bolster his squad and now the Real Sociedad boss has offered his thoughts regarding the situation by revealing why he thinks the midfielder opted to stay at the Reale Arena.

"He has rejected an offer," Alguacil confirmed, as per the Daily Mirror. "There is no doubt that Liverpool is a big club and the fact that he said no to them, even though they put in what they put in, is something to be proud of.

"It means that things are being done well at the club and even if such powerful clubs come along and Martin says no."

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In further good news for Alguacil, Diario Vasco reports that Zubimendi is very close to signing his new contract with Real Sociedad and this comes hot on the heels of reports claiming he was causing 'problems' with regard to committing his future to the club.

Having said that, the La Real boss hasn't exactly ruled out an exit for his star player due to the fact the summer window doesn't close until August 30, amid fears another big club could come knocking on the midfielder's door.

"I am holding back, but there is still time until the 30th [transfer deadline day]. Now it has been Liverpool, but tomorrow it could be another big club, because they have the level.

"Although for me the biggest club is Real Sociedad. I imagine that he must have thought that and that is why he has decided to stay."

Suggesting La Real are the bigger club is certainly an interesting take, but the fact they've been able to hold onto a player that was coveted by a club the size of Liverpool is no doubt a feather in the cap of the La Liga outfit.