Arne Slot’s reaction to Liverpool’s potential deal for Martin Zubimendi revealed
Liverpool are closing in on Martin Zubimendi as their first summer signing
Liverpool and Real Sociedad have engaged in discussions regarding a potential deal for Martin Zubimendi after the player expressed his readiness to move to England.
It was reported that Arsenal had identified Zubimendi as their top midfield target, with manager Mikel Arteta being a strong admirer of the Spanish international.
However, Arsenal eventually decided to step back from negotiations due to concerns that Zubimendi preferred to stay in Spain.
Despite these earlier developments, talks between Liverpool and Real Sociedad are progressing, with Zubimendi potentially becoming Arne Slot’s first signing as Liverpool manager this summer.
It is believed that Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes has pushed forward with a deal after being informed by intermediaries that a move for Zubimendi was feasible.
Hughes has been in contact with Zubimendi’s agent, Iñaki Ibáñez, whom he knows well from his time at Bournemouth, where Ibáñez represented Andoni Iraola, the coach Hughes convinced to take charge at the Vitality Stadium.
Zubimendi was initially expected to stay at Real Sociedad this summer, making Liverpool’s interest a surprising development for the Spanish club.
However, within the last 24 hours, Sociedad have informed Zubimendi that they are open to his departure should he wish to leave, and they are willing to negotiate with Liverpool.
Zubimendi has a £51 million release clause in his contract, but Liverpool prefer to structure the payment in installments rather than paying the full amount upfront, as required by the release clause.
Negotiations between the clubs are set to continue, but the key discussions will be with the player himself.
Intermediaries engaged with Liverpool regarding Zubimendi, and this encouragement has been instrumental in advancing the deal.
Once Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, became aware that a deal was possible, he quickly seized the opportunity, accelerating the process.
Liverpool’s new head coach Arne Slot has been informed of these developments in recent days and is reportedly thrilled at the prospect of securing Zubimendi’s signature.
According to HITC, Slot is excited about the possibility of bringing the Spaniard to Anfield this summer.
Zubimendi, who played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, now appears to be on the verge of a potential move to Liverpool.
The 25-year-old had also been linked with Barcelona, where manager Xavi was known to be a big fan of the midfielder.
However, if completed, this transfer would represent a significant addition to Liverpool’s squad.
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