- Martin Zubimendi played a key role in Spain’s victory at the Euro Championship held in Germany
- He came off the bench to take Rodri’s place and delivered an impressive performance
- The Real Sociedad midfielder has attracted significant attention from Arsenal
Liverpool is keen on acquiring Real Sociedad’s defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who now must make a significant choice regarding his future with his boyhood club.
The 25-year-old showcased his talent during the European Championship final, stepping in for Manchester City’s Rodri when he went off injured at halftime in the match against England.
Under head coach Arne Slot and new sporting director Richard Hughes, Liverpool is still looking for its first transfer, focusing on quality rather than quantity, with Slot having emphasized the need for high standards in new signings.
Zubimendi has emerged as a top target for strengthening a vital defensive midfield area that has been in need of enhancement for a while, following extensive scouting and due diligence processes.
Last August, Wataru Endo joined for £16.2 million after the club’s unsuccessful attempts to land Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who went to Chelsea after unexpected exits of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.
Martin Zubimendi impressed with his starring role in the European Championship final
Arne Slot is still yet to make a first signing for the senior side after taking over this summer
Zubimendi has spent his entire career at boyhood club Real Sociedad and racked up 188 games
Endo had a solid first season at Anfield, but at 31 years old, and having started off the bench in three of four pre-season matches, it seems Slot may have reservations about him.
Born in the same region as Xabi Alonso, Zubimendi is in the same agency as the Bayer Leverkusen manager, who has a strong connection with Hughes after facilitating Andoni Iraola’s move to Bournemouth, Hughes’ former club, last summer.
In 2022, former Real Sociedad B coach Alonso remarked: ‘Martin’s the kind of player every coach dreams of. He’s selfless, always prioritizing his teammates over himself. He possesses the knack for creating opportunities and enhancing teamwork.
‘He makes those around him better by constantly providing solutions and enhancing play. He anticipates the next step even before the ball reaches him. His organizing skills are exceptional. I cherished my time working with him.’
The midfielder, who has made 187 appearances for La Real, was referred to by a Spanish football specialist as ‘the next Busquets or Rodri’. He embodies the exact profile of the player Slot is eager to bring on board.
The player shares an agency with Xabi Alonso, who has also spoken glowingly of the midfielder
Zubimendi has spent his entire career at Basque club Real Sociedad and now faces a huge decision over his future
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have had a strong interest in the Spanish international in the last few windows
Zubimendi exhibits strong skills in winning the ball and maintaining defensive shape, but he is equally effective in possession, able to advance play with crisp vertical passing. Similar to Rodri, he remains composed on the ball and knows how to evade defensive pressure.
Reports from Spain indicate that Zubimendi has a release clause set at £51.4 million. However, the situation is not straightforward, as the 25-year-old has not pressured the club for a move. Arsenal has also expressed interest in both Zubimendi and his teammate, Mikel Merino.
