Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is keen to join Liverpool in the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg.
Zubimendi was included in Real Sociedad’s travelling squad for their pre-season friendly against Union Berlin on Friday evening.
The Reds are keen to make the Spain international their first major signing under Arne Slot.
Zubimendi reportedly has a £51.65m release clause in his contract with the La Liga club.
Despite Liverpool’s interest, which became public on Wednesday, the midfielder’s future remains uncertain.
While Zubimendi is included in the squad, Mikel Merino has been left out amid speculation linking him with Arsenal.
This contrast suggests that Zubimendi has not yet decided his future, and an agreement is not imminent.
It is unclear what role Zubimendi will play against Union Berlin, as he only returned to pre-season training on Monday following Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.
The midfielder has previously turned down interest from other clubs, and the La Liga side hopes he will do so again.
The Reds will need to negotiate with Real Sociedad regarding the transfer fee, despite the release clause, if Zubimendi decides to move to Anfield, as the clause requires payment in a single installment.
Meanwhile, Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil has held several meetings with Zubimendi since his return to pre-season training, trying to convince him to stay in San Sebastián.
However, reports suggest that Zubimendi is now more inclined to leave the club than ever before, with Real Sociedad working hard to change his mind.
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