Liverpool might gain a significant edge in negotiations if they choose to pursue one of Europe’s top young midfield talents.
Arne Slot’s team has had a subdued start to the summer transfer window, with no senior signings made so far, despite several first-team players leaving as free agents last month. Thiago Alcantara, Joel Matip, and Adrian have all departed, and Liverpool has yet to secure replacements.
David Ornstein from The Athletic gave an update on Tuesday, stating that Liverpool has “identified a target” for their need in defensive midfield. With Wataru Endo’s future uncertain and players like Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch being better suited for more advanced roles, Liverpool is expected to sign a new defensive midfielder this summer.
Ornstein also mentioned that the new signing will likely come from “outside of the Premier League,” thereby excluding a move for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.
One name linked with Liverpool is Spanish international Martin Zubimendi, who plays for Real Sociedad. Last summer, Arsenal showed strong interest in Zubimendi, and both Barcelona and Manchester United were also reportedly keen on him. He has been compared to Manchester City’s Rodri and Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets.
Liverpool might have a potential edge in negotiations for Zubimendi due to the rumored good relationship between the club’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes, and Zubimendi’s agent, Inaki Ibanez. Previously, as Bournemouth’s technical director, Hughes successfully persuaded another Ibanez client, head coach Andoni Iraola, to join Bournemouth.
Additionally, former Liverpool player and current Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is also represented by Ibanez, further strengthening the connection with Liverpool.
Liverpool fans have responded to the speculation about a potential move for Zubimendi, with some comparing him to Manchester City’s Rodri. One fan on X wrote, “Ideally, we need another CDM approaching Rodri/Rice levels, with Endo as backup. Zubimendi fits the bill.”
Another fan commented, “In a perfect scenario, Liverpool signs Zubimendi and pairs him in a double pivot with Mac. The technical quality would be exceptional.”
As of now, there is limited transfer information from the club, so it remains to be seen if Zubimendi will be their target in midfield.
