Report: Zubimendi’s Liverpool Move Still Possible Despite Snub | OneFootball

Martin Zubimendi’s Liverpool Transfer Saga: A Twist Still Possible?

Liverpool’s summer transfer window has been unusually quiet, with fans and pundits alike scratching their heads at the lack of new arrivals. Among the most discussed potential signings was Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The talented Spaniard had been on Liverpool’s radar for some time, and the Merseyside club seemed to have all the pieces in place to secure his signature. However, in a surprising turn of events, Zubimendi decided to stay at Sociedad, leaving Liverpool without the midfield reinforcement many felt they desperately needed.

Yet, recent comments from Real Sociedad’s coach, Imanol Alguacil, suggest that the door might not be completely shut on the deal. Could Zubimendi still find his way to Anfield before the transfer window closes? Let’s dive into the situation, the implications for both clubs, and what it could mean for Liverpool’s season.

Zubimendi’s Decision: Loyalty or Pragmatism?

Zubimendi’s decision to reject Liverpool came as a shock, particularly given the prestige and financial power of the Premier League giants. According to Diario Vasco, the midfielder had already informed his family by early August that he intended to remain at Sociedad, despite Liverpool’s willingness to meet the €60m (£51.1m) release clause in his contract.

Real Sociedad coach Imanol Alguacil shed some light on the reasons behind Zubimendi’s decision, praising the player’s commitment to the club. “Liverpool is a historic and very big team and, seeing all the money they wanted to put on the table, you have to value what it means that Martin has said ‘no,’ to stay here,” Alguacil told Diario Vasco. His comments highlight not only Zubimendi’s loyalty but also reflect positively on the work being done at Real Sociedad.

Photo: IMAGO

Alguacil continued: “It means that things are being done well at the club and even if such powerful clubs come, Martin says no, I’m happy, but there’s still time until the 30th. Now it was Liverpool, but tomorrow it could be another great one, because the players have a level.”

The sentiment here is clear: Zubimendi’s choice is seen as a testament to the strong environment at Real Sociedad, where the club’s ambitions and the player’s personal growth seem to align. However, Alguacil’s cautionary tone about the transfer window’s end date leaves room for speculation that things could still change.

What Does This Mean for Liverpool?

For Liverpool, missing out on Zubimendi is undoubtedly a blow, particularly given the club’s need for midfield reinforcement. The Reds have been relatively quiet in the transfer market this summer, a fact not lost on fans who are eager to see new faces at Anfield. Despite this, Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, appears content with the current squad. After a solid 2-0 victory against Ipswich Town, Slot remarked, “We have many good players but, like I said, if we can find another one we’ll not hesitate to do so. But we have already many.”

This sentiment was echoed by Liverpool full-back Andy Robertson, who stated, “I think we have an unbelievably strong squad. You look at the bench today and even the lads who maybe didn’t travel, we have a fantastic squad and the quality was shown a lot in the second half today.”

Still, many Liverpool supporters remain unconvinced. The squad depth, particularly in midfield, has been a concern, especially with the rigours of competing on multiple fronts this season. The failure to land Zubimendi has exacerbated these worries. After all, the summer transfer window is the prime opportunity for clubs to strengthen, and Liverpool’s lack of activity could prove costly in the long run.

Photo: IMAGO

Could There Still Be a Twist in the Tale?

Despite Zubimendi’s apparent decision to stay, Alguacil’s recent comments suggest that a transfer is not entirely off the table. After a disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Rayo Vallecano, the Real Sociedad coach admitted that he couldn’t rule out a last-minute change. “And I won’t even tell you [about] if Zubimendi leaves or not last minute…” Alguacil mused, leaving the door ajar for a possible late twist.

This uncertainty will undoubtedly keep Liverpool on high alert. As the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion, the Reds may still hold out hope that Zubimendi could change his mind. Such a move would undoubtedly delight Liverpool fans, who are eager for the club to bolster its ranks.

However, time is running out, and if Liverpool fails to secure Zubimendi or another midfield target, questions will undoubtedly be raised about the club’s strategy this summer.

What Lies Ahead for Both Clubs?

For Real Sociedad, retaining Zubimendi would be a massive coup. His presence in the squad bolsters their aspirations both domestically and in European competitions. Alguacil’s comments about the quality of his players underline the belief within the club that they can compete at the highest level, even against Europe’s giants.

On the other hand, Liverpool’s immediate future looks a little more uncertain. While the squad is undoubtedly strong, as Slot and Robertson have pointed out, the lack of fresh faces could be a concern as the season progresses. Competing on multiple fronts requires depth, and without additional reinforcements, Liverpool could find themselves stretched thin, especially in the latter stages of the campaign.

The next few days will be crucial. Whether Zubimendi stays put or makes a late move to Anfield, the outcome of this transfer saga could have significant implications for both Real Sociedad and Liverpool’s seasons.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The ongoing transfer saga surrounding Martin Zubimendi is just another example of the club’s frustrating approach to the transfer market. It’s hard to ignore the fact that Liverpool, despite all their resources, are struggling to close deals that should, on paper, be straightforward. The news that Zubimendi turned down a move to Anfield, despite Liverpool’s willingness to meet his release clause, only adds to the growing sense of frustration.

One can’t help but wonder if the club’s hierarchy is too passive in these negotiations. How can a club of Liverpool’s stature be snubbed by a player from a relatively smaller side? It raises questions about Liverpool’s pulling power in the current market, especially when rivals are busy bolstering their squads with top talent.

Moreover, the reassurances from Slot and Robertson, while admirable, do little to quell the unease among the fanbase. Yes, the current squad is strong, but football is an unforgiving sport. Injuries, fatigue, and unforeseen challenges can quickly expose even the best-prepared teams. Without new signings, particularly in key areas like midfield, it’s difficult to see how Liverpool can compete on all fronts as they have in previous seasons.

In conclusion, while there’s still hope that Zubimendi could change his mind, the real concern for Liverpool fans is the club’s overall transfer strategy. Are they doing enough to ensure the squad is equipped to compete at the highest level? Only time will tell, but as it stands, the scepticism among the fanbase is entirely justified.