Martin Zubimendi is still deliberating whether to leave Real Sociedad, with no final decision yet given to the Basque club as Liverpool continue to pursue a £50m-plus deal, according to The Independent.
However, he feels a strong sense of loyalty to his current club.
Over the past 24 hours, La Real have been working hard to persuade him to stay, while also maintaining communication with Liverpool in case a transfer proceeds.
Martin Zubimendi has a £51m release clause, though Liverpool’s new transfer team has been exploring alternative structures for the purchase.
Relations between the two clubs are positive, but Real Sociedad remain determined to retain a player they consider a key asset and who has significant potential for further development.
Zubimendi is regarded as a future top-class defensive midfielder, which is precisely why Liverpool are so interested.
He demonstrated his abilities by seamlessly stepping in for Rodri in Spain’s Euro 2024 final win over England after the Manchester City midfielder was forced off due to injury.
The Reds are hopeful they can eventually secure his signature, although there are no guarantees.
Zubimendi has expressed openness to a move to Anfield, but those close to him say he is struggling with doubts about whether now is the right time to leave his boyhood club.
As a native of San Sebastián, Zubimendi has been with the Real Sociedad youth system since the age of 12.
Following the club’s recent success in supplying four key players to Spain’s Euro 2024-winning team – including final-winning scorer Mikel Oyarzabal – Real Sociedad face a potentially challenging summer.
Centre-back Robin Le Normand has already joined Atletico Madrid, and quarter-final-winning scorer Mikel Merino is attracting interest from several clubs, including Arsenal.
Zubimendi is viewed as the player with the most potential and is currently deeply contemplating his future.
It is anticipated he may make a decision by Monday, as he does not want to enter Real Sociedad’s opening game of the season against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday with his future still unresolved.
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