Liverpool's top summer transfer target Martin Zubimendi has rejected a proposal to join the Merseyside club and will remain at boyhood team Real Sociedad.
Spain’s European Championship winner was identified as a top priority for Arne Slot’s men this window and Liverpool believed they could tempt him away from La Real. He had previously rejected the likes of Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
But it now appears the move is off, with Zubimendi being convinced to stay by a charm offensive from his current club led by manager Imanol Alguacil.
It is understood the boss held several meetings with the 25-year-old and tugged on his heartstrings to stay, referencing how the fanbase would be disappointed by his exit. Imanol also talked a lot about how good Zubimendi’s life is in San Sebastián.
He made a presentation that centred around the good food options in the Basque region and Zubimendi’s hobby of hiking up Mount Ulia. He also talked about how the player had told Spanish tv he would stay at La Real after the Euros final.
Martin Zubimendi rejected a proposed deal to join Liverpool, despite 'giving the Reds his word'
Liverpool were prepared to pay the required money to land Zubimendi — he has a £52million (€60m) release clause — and also offered him a big financial incentive to move to England. But the player did not fancy leaving Sociedad, his local club where he has made his name.
The Reds believe they have adequate options in the holding midfield area with Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo able to play there. Dominik Szoboszlai and Trent Alexander-Arnold have also been earmarked to play there.
Hughes is said to be angry as he thought Zubimendi had given his word to join the Anfield club. Liverpool have not completely ruled out signing a No 6 this summer but it is now seen as unlikely given the time left in the transfer window and also the club’s desire to not sign players for the sake of it.
Liverpool believed Zubimendi had given an unequivocal agreement to join the club. Fans are now asking questions of the Reds hierarchy with Liverpool still the only club in Europe’s top five leagues yet to make a signing this summer.