Liverpool Set to Pursue Transfer for Midfielder Martin Zubimendi

Liverpool is reportedly eyeing a transfer for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi as the club looks to make its first signing under newly appointed manager Arne Slot.

Zubimendi was a key member of the Spain squad that clinched victory in Euro 2024, stepping in as a second-half substitute for Manchester City's Rodri during the final match, where Spain defeated England 2-1.

The 25-year-old midfielder has been with Sociedad since 2011 and possesses a release clause of 60 million euros (£51.5 million).

In the previous season, Zubimendi played a significant role in helping Sociedad finish sixth in La Liga, netting four goals in 31 league appearances. Additionally, the club reached the last 16 of the Champions League in the 2023-24 season, ultimately falling to Paris Saint-Germain.

Should the transfer materialize, Zubimendi would be the first player to join Liverpool under Slot, who took over following the departure of Jurgen Klopp.

Zubimendi has previously expressed admiration for former Spain international Xabi Alonso, who played in the same holding midfield role. Alonso developed at Sociedad before making his move to Liverpool in 2004. Recently, he managed Sociedad's B team before becoming the head coach of Bayer Leverkusen in Germany.