Liverpool may face a challenging task if they want to sign Martin Zubimendi in the summer transfer window.
The Reds are eager to make the Spaniard their first signing of the Arne Slot era, but his £51.65m release clause poses a significant hurdle.
Despite Liverpool’s apparent intent, Zubimendi has not yet been seen at the AXA Training Centre, holding a Reds scarf or wearing their shirt.
Sporting director Richard Hughes does have a working relationship with Zubimendi’s agent, Inaki Ibanez, and his agency, Idub Global, having previously recruited another of their clients, Andoni Iraola, as Bournemouth manager last season.
This relationship might give him insight into the likelihood of completing a deal.
However, according to The Athletic, the move is complicated by the need for Liverpool to pay Zubimendi’s full release clause if they are unable to negotiate a lower fee with Real Sociedad.
Additionally, Liverpool must persuade Zubimendi to leave San Sebastián, a task that could be challenging given his previous reluctance and the interest from other Premier League clubs and Barcelona.
Before Liverpool’s interest became public, HITC reported that Zubimendi had expressed a desire to stay at Real Sociedad this summer, which could complicate any potential transfer.
Nonetheless, Hughes’ relationship with the player’s agency suggests there may have been some positive indications about the possibility of a move to Anfield.
As it stands, a transfer is far from certain, but if Liverpool can succeed where clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Barcelona have not, it would represent a significant coup for the Reds.
With less than two weeks remaining before the new Premier League season begins, Liverpool are keen to strengthen Slot’s squad.
A move for Zubimendi would mark the first significant signing for Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes.
Hughes mentioned last month that July would be relatively quiet due to ongoing international tournaments, but anticipated that transfer activity would “reach a crescendo” in August.
Liverpool are the only Premier League club yet to make a signing this summer, with Arne Slot seeking a new No. 6 in midfield.
The position has needed reinforcement since Fabinho’s departure 12 months ago.
Japan international Wataru Endo was signed from Stuttgart late in the window last August for £16m after the club missed out on other targets.
However, the now 31-year-old was only considered a short-term solution.
For much of last season, Alexis Mac Allister was used in the No. 6 role.
Last month, Liverpool turned down a £12m bid from Marseille for Endo.
Read more: Liverpool eye summer move for Martin Zubimendi as release clause revealed
Fabrizio Romano confirms Manchester United have ‘not received any bid’ from PSG for Jadon Sancho
Enzo Maresca believes Chelsea squad is behind Enzo Fernandez after Real Madrid defeat
