Liverpool failed to sign a defensive midfielder in the last summer transfer window and it is one of the priorities for sporting director Richard Hughes in the upcoming transfer windows.
Martin Zubimendi’s decision to stay put at Real Sociedad threw Liverpool’s plans into disarray last summer and the club decided against pursuing other alternative midfield targets.
However, Hughes and his recruitment team remain committed to signing a defensive midfielder despite Ryan Gravenberch’s emergence in the number 6 role this season under Arne Slot.
Liverpool have continued to hold an interest in Zubimendi but are unlikely to get a clear run at him again as Arsenal and Manchester City are also exploring a deal to sign the Spaniard in January or next summer.
The Merseyside giants are looking at other midfield targets as well and it emerged recently that Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has emerged as a target for Liverpool.
It has been claimed that the Reds are now preparing to act on their interest and are ready to try and get a deal done with the Seagulls.
The club open initial talks for the 20-year-old midfielder
Baleba is considered one of the best young defensive midfielders in the Premier League and his performances have piqued the interest of the Merseyside giants.
Liverpool are now keen to ensure that they are in a position to secure a deal and according to indykaila News, the Merseyside giants are pushing to sign him.
The Reds have opened talks with Brighton to try and secure a deal to take Baleba to Anfield in the upcoming transfer windows.
Can you name the team Liverpool sold these players to?
The negotiations are still at an early stage but Liverpool have moved proactively to ensure that they get an early edge over rivals who want Baleba as well.
Brighton are known for being a selling cub but the Seagulls also have the reputation of driving a hard bargain and will likely demand a premium fee.
The Seagulls signed Baleba from Lille last year for a deal worth €30m and are expected to demand double or treble that figure if they are to sell him.
