Liverpool transfers: Arne Slot pushing for £51.5m deal after Zubimendi snub

Liverpool have been forced to explore alternatives to Martin Zubimendi after being rejected by the Spain international.

The Reds had earmarked the 25-year-old to bolster their defensive midfield options and, at one stage, appeared to be on course to land their target amid claims the Euro 2024 winner had given his word to sporting director Richard Hughes that he would move to Anfield.

However, following a sudden change of heart, Zubimendi has decided to stay put with Real Sociedad - although reports claim he is now causing problems for the La Liga outfit amid talks with regard to a contract renewal.

Nevertheless, whilst this decision will no doubt serve as a blow to new Liverpool head coach Arne Slot, who is yet to welcome a new signing since replacing Jurgen Klopp, it may pave the way for the Dutchman to be reunited with a player he's previously coached.

READ MORE: Transfer now 'dependent' on Liverpool but player 'very much' WANTS move

Slot 'pushing for Koopmeiners' deal

According to reports in Italy, the Reds could take advantage of Teun Koopmeiners' uncertain future at Atalanta.

Willing to leave the Serie A outfit to take the next step in his career, Juventus have been favourites to sign him but they are apparently reluctant to pay the £51.5m asking price.

Furthermore, Tutto Juve states that Gian Piero Gasperini's side do not actually want to sell Koopmeiners to a direct rival so are therefore prepared to sell him abroad which reportedly places the Merseyside giants in pole position to win the race for his signature with Slot said to be pushing for a deal.

Despite not being a natural 'number six', Koopmeiners has previously been described as a 'transformative signing' were Liverpool to bring him in given his previous connections to Slot.

Now it just remains to be seen if the Reds make a move in response to missing out on Zubimendi.