Liverpool and Arsenal locked in transfer battle for £51.2M midfielder

In a last-ditch effort to bolster their midfield strength, Liverpool made an astute move last summer by bringing in Endo to fill the defensive midfield role previously occupied by Fabinho at Anfield.

The Japanese international has improved tremendously since his arrival; however, at 31 years of age, he's not the future of the Reds' midfield.

Amidst Jurgen Klopp's impending exit and future planning, Liverpool are reportedly in the market for a midfielder to ensure long-term stability in the position.

The spotlight has turned towards Martin Zubimendi, a name that has generated considerable interest within the Liverpool camp.

The pursuit of Zubimendi is not new; it traces back to last August when Liverpool legend, David James, publicly advocated for the Merseyside club to secure the services of the Real Sociedad midfielder.

In an interview with GGRecon, the former Red said: “Speaking of midfielders that they should consider a move for, I accessed a football data site and looked at a number of the midfielders Liverpool were linked with and compared their stats, but it was actually Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad who came up with the best statistics for that position.

“With Liverpool losing a lot of players this summer, I feel confident in saying that they still need to replenish their squad and somebody like Zubimendi, who’s 24 years old, is unlikely to cost too much and has all the qualities you need in that position.”

Liverpool now linked again with a move for Zubimendi

Recent developments have intensified the situation, with Liverpool ready for a summer transfer window showdown with Arsenal for Zubimendi's signature, according to exclusive insights from Football Transfers.

The 25-year-old Spaniard, whose contract with Real Sociedad extends until 2027, comes with a release clause of €60 million (£51.2M).

Liverpool are reported to be prepared to meet this valuation to bring the Spanish international, who admires Anfield icon Xabi Alonso, to their ranks.

Alonso is strongly linked to replace Jurgen Klopp as the next manager of LFC.

Zubimendi has been a key player for Real Sociedad in the ongoing season, having started 21 league games, contributed four goals, and provided one assist.

Despite a recent 90-minute appearance in a disappointing defeat against Osasuna, Zubimendi's focus will soon shift to the Champions League, where Sociedad is set to face Paris Saint-Germain.