Liverpool have cooled their interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to The Independent.
The Reds are hoping to secure the services of a holding midfield player before the transfer window closes at the end of this month.
However, Zubimendi’s value has “rocketed” since his participation in the European Championships, where he helped Spain win the tournament.
The 25-year-old does reportedly have a €60m (£51m) release clause in his contract but it’s clear that Arne Slot’s side were hoping to sign him for below that figure.
Zubimendi had several suitors in the Premier League
Arsenal were originally the keenest to sign the Spanish international, having first made a move to buy him in January 2023. However, it now looks like they will be recruiting his older (and cheaper) teammate Mikel Merino instead.
Manchester United have been mentioned as potential suitors for Zubimendi too, but the Red Devils are said to be focusing their attention on buying Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain, having already agreed personal terms with the Uruguayan.
Who are the alternatives that Liverpool could target?
There have been rumours that the Merseysiders could make an approach for PSV Eindhoven’s Joey Veerman but sources in the Dutch media have already dismissed those reports.
Two Serie A players, Genoa’s Morten Frendrup and Atalanta’s Emerson, have also been considered, with enquiries made for both players, but the club have not advanced their interest any further than that.
Considering Slot needs a midfielder who has a good first touch, passing range, as well as the ability to provide cover defensively, the number of targets who can fulfil the role is incredibly small. We shall have to wait and see if sporting director Richard Hughes can come up with a player who fits the brief.
