Liverpool eye summer move for Martin Zubimendi as release clause revealed

Liverpool are eyeing summer move for Euro 2024 winner Martin Zubimendi, according to Liverpool Echo.

The Reds have identified the Spain international as a key target to strengthen their defensive midfield options.

Zubimendi, 25, has a release clause of €60 million (£51.65 million) at Real Sociedad.

Liverpool have been actively searching for a new defensive midfielder throughout the summer, and addressing this position has become a priority for Slot as he evaluates the squad he inherited from Jurgen Klopp at the end of last season.

Having come through the ranks at Sociedad, Zubimendi has made 188 appearances and scored eight goals, with half of those goals coming last season.

He made his debut in 2019.

This year, Zubimendi played a key role in Sociedad’s journey to the Champions League round of 16.

His impressive performances earned him a regular spot in the Spain squad, with his first cap coming in 2021.

He was called up for the recent European Championships, starting in Spain’s group stage win over Albania and making substitute appearances against Croatia and in the semi-final victory over France.

In the final against England, Zubimendi replaced Manchester City’s Rodri at half-time and contributed to Spain’s 2-1 triumph.

Acquiring Zubimendi would also mark the first significant transfer under Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes.

Hughes, who previously worked with Zubimendi’s agency Idub Global, had a prior relationship with them, including recruiting Andoni Iraola as Bournemouth manager last season.

If completed, the transfer could prompt further moves in the market for Liverpool ahead of the deadline on August 30.

Among those potentially impacted by the transfer is defensive midfielder Wataru Endo, who has made only one start in pre-season.

Liverpool previously rejected a £12 million bid from Marseille for the 31-year-old, but they may now be more open to a departure.

Read more: 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

Manchester United hold talks with AS Monaco for signing of Ligue 1 star