Liverpool are reportedly preparing a second attempt to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in January.
According to TEAMtalk, the Reds are determined to land the Spanish international after failing to agree on personal terms in the summer, despite being ready to trigger his €60m release clause. However, Arsenal are also in the mix, threatening to hijack the deal.
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The question is: do Liverpool actually need Zubimendi?
Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool are flying high at the top of the Premier League table, with their revamped midfield firing on all cylinders.
Ryan Gravenberch has exceeded expectations in the defensive midfield role, while Alexis Mac Allister has been solid as a left-sided No. 8. Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones have shared responsibilities on the right, with Jones emerging as a key player in recent weeks.
Adding Zubimendi to this mix could create more problems than it solves. If he were to replace Gravenberch in the holding role, it would disrupt the Dutchman’s incredible form. Deploying him further up the pitch might stifle the attacking dynamism that has been a hallmark of Slot’s system.
Liverpool eye Martin Zubimendi again, but do they really need him?
Nonetheless, Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes appears undeterred. TEAMtalk reports that the Reds are ready to make Zubimendi one of the highest-paid players at Anfield to lure him away from Spain. Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta’s keen interest, are expected to match the release clause as well. This is making this a potential bidding war.
Interestingly, Zubimendi is not the only midfielder on Liverpool’s radar. The club is also keeping tabs on Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni. They are with hopes of leveraging their upcoming Champions League clash to gauge his interest in a move to Merseyside.
While Zubimendi’s quality is undeniable, Liverpool’s midfield already appears well-balanced. This rumored pursuit raises eyebrows. As it risks unsettling a unit that has been instrumental in their remarkable form this season.
For now, the focus remains on whether Liverpool can convince Zubimendi to swap sunny Spain for the rain-soaked glory of Anfield. One thing’s for sure – the January transfer window promises plenty of drama.
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