Speculation has increased following Liverpool’s identification of a target for the number 6 position, with Martín Zubimendi emerging as a prominent candidate, generating considerable excitement among Liverpool fans.
Zubimendi, who has been on Liverpool’s radar for some time, impressed significantly by stepping up after replacing an injured Rodri in the European Championship final. His aerial strength and precise passing make him a potentially ideal midfield anchor for Arne Slot’s Liverpool team.
Who is Martín Zubimendi?
Martín Zubimendi plays for Real Sociedad, where he developed through the academy, and has also earned 10 caps for Spain. Despite a hamstring injury that sidelined him towards the end of last season, he has generally enjoyed a healthy career, logging over 2,500 minutes in each of the last three LaLiga seasons.
Zubimendi has garnered significant praise in Spain, including being named as a potential successor to Sergio Busquets at Barcelona. The legendary defensive midfielder, who was capped 143 times for Spain, called Zubimendi “spectacular” and drew comparisons between him and Manchester City’s Rodri.
How Much Would Zubimendi Cost?
Liverpool’s owners, FSG, have demonstrated their willingness to invest heavily in the holding midfield position, as seen with their British record bid of £111 million for Moisés Caicedo last summer, although he chose Chelsea.
Martín Zubimendi, however, is available for a significantly lower price, with a reported release clause of around £50 million. With Liverpool prioritizing a new holding midfielder this summer and growing interest in current player Wataru Endō, this might be an opportune moment to make a move.
Arsenal and Barcelona have also shown interest in the Euro 2024 winner. However, Arsenal appears to be focusing on Mikel Merino, while Barcelona is finalizing a deal for Dani Olmo, potentially giving Liverpool a clearer path to secure Zubimendi. He could be the key signing that launches Liverpool’s transfer activity under Arne Slot.
