Real Sociedad’s manager has confirmed that the reason Liverpool were unsuccessful in their attempt to sign Martin Zubimendi is that the 25-year-old rejected them.
Liverpool triggered the midfielder’s £51 million (€60m) release clause but Zubimendi turned them down and while there is time for a change of heart, it’s unlikely.
Imanol Alguacil speaks out on Martin Zubimendi future amid Liverpool transfer interest
Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil says that Zubimendi rejected Liverpool but admits he remains concerned about his ability to hold onto the midfielder this summer.
“He has rejected an offer. There is no doubt that Liverpool are great and the fact that he has said no, putting in what they put in, is a reason to be proud,” Alguacil said.
“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 team, because the players have a level.
“Although, for me, the biggest is Real Sociedad. I imagine he must have thought that and that is why he decided to stay.
“[Teams coming for our players] happens every year and to every team. Every summer there’s movement. There are no two players like [Mikel] Merino and [Robin] Le Normand, and don’t even get me started on if Zubimendi leaves in the last minute of the window…
“They are all unreal players because of the things they have done with us. Le Normand has left, Arsenal want Merino and Liverpool were willing to pay Zubimendi’s clause. But we can’t find excuses.”
Zubimendi started Sociedad’s La Liga defeat to Rayo Vallecano on the bench before scoring a consolation goal before Alguacil brought up the prospect of selling the midfielder in his post-match press conference.
While it would be fantastic to see him move to Liverpool, it remains unlikely at this stage.
