Liverpool continue to hold an interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Despite failing to secure the Spaniard during the summer transfer window, Liverpool’s admiration for the player remains strong. Romano revealed in his latest transfer roundup on YouTube that the Reds have not changed their stance on Zubimendi, with manager Arne Slot and the club’s board still viewing him as a key target for the future.
Romano shared Slot’s thoughts on the situation, referencing comments the Liverpool manager made over the weekend.
“Slot says it’s time to move on from Zubimendi because he didn’t join. [Liverpool] are very happy with the players they have, especially Ryan Gravenberch who is doing fantastic… great impact for the new manager,” Romano explained.
Ryan Gravenberch. Credit: Imago Images
However, the interest in Zubimendi is far from over. Romano confirmed that Liverpool made a significant push in the summer, going so far as to offer Stefan Bajcetic on loan as part of the deal and being willing to pay Zubimendi’s release clause. Ultimately, the player decided to stay at Real Sociedad.
“[Liverpool] tried in the summer [to buy Zubimendi] in every way, including sending [Stefan] Bajcetic on loan and they were prepared to pay the release clause, but the player wanted to stay at Real Sociedad,” Romano said. “Zubimendi remains a player of interest for Liverpool because the board, the directors, the manager approved Zubimendi as a target.”
Gravenberch’s impact may change Liverpool’s January plans
Although Zubimendi has been pivotal for Real Sociedad this season, playing every minute outside of the opening game, his team has struggled, sitting 17th in La Liga with just one win in their first seven matches. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s midfield has seen a resurgence with Ryan Gravenberch, who has seamlessly slotted into the role that Zubimendi might have occupied.
Ryan Gravenberch. Credit: Imago Images
Gravenberch’s performances have been widely praised, with the Dutch midfielder becoming a key figure in Arne Slot’s counter-pressing system.
His contributions have been instrumental in Liverpool’s fast start to the season, raising questions about whether Liverpool will even pursue Zubimendi again in January.
With Gravenberch excelling in the defensive midfield role, the need for Zubimendi may have diminished, but the option still remains open for the Reds.
Romano noted that while the competition between Gravenberch and Zubimendi could be beneficial for depth, Liverpool will have to weigh their options carefully as they look to compete on multiple fronts this season.
Should they revisit the idea of bringing in Zubimendi, Liverpool would have enviable midfield depth, positioning them to contend for all four trophies they are vying for.
In the coming months, Liverpool will decide whether to reignite their pursuit of the Spanish midfielder, or if Gravenberch’s form will make that decision for them. Either way, the Reds are well-stocked in midfield and continue to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.
