Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil has suggested that a late twist in the transfer saga surrounding Liverpool target Martin Zubimendi could still be possible.
Zubimendi had previously turned down a move to Anfield earlier this summer.
The Red’s boss Arne Slot had publicly acknowledged that the Euro 2024-winning midfielder was not interested in making the switch, seemingly closing the door on any potential transfer.
“I said many times already our squad is really strong so it is not easy to find players to strengthen,” Slot said.
“Zubimendi was one but he chose not to come here so we go forward with the one we have.
“We’re in a good place and Richard [transfer chief Richard Hughes] is trying to improve the squad in the background.
“Zubimendi didn’t want to come and Richard tried everything.
“We kept the same team but lost Thiago, Joel [Matip] and Adrian and you always talk about transfers but we have a positive team already.”
However, Alguacil has hinted at a possible change of heart.
Martin Zubimendi started on the bench in Sunday’s defeat to Rayo Vallecano but scored a late consolation goal.
After the match, Alguacil mentioned the possibility of a late departure for the 25-year-old on two separate occasions, suggesting that the situation might not be entirely resolved.
“He has rejected an offer’ Alguacil said via 90min.
“There is no doubt that Liverpool are great and the fact that he has said no, putting in what they put in, is a reason to be proud.
“It means that things are being done well at the club and even if such powerful clubs come, Martin says no, I’m happy, but there’s still time until the 30th.
“Now it was Liverpool, but tomorrow it could be another great team, because the players have a level.
“Although, for me, the biggest is Real Sociedad.
“I imagine he must have thought that and that is why he decided to stay.
“[Teams coming for our players] happens every year and to every team.
“Every summer there’s movement.
“There are no two players like [Mikel] Merino and [Robin] Le Normand, and don’t even get me started on if Zubimendi leaves in the last minute of the window…
“They are all unreal players because of the things they have done with us.
“Le Normand has left, Arsenal want Merino and Liverpool were willing to pay Zubimendi’s clause.
“But we can’t find excuses.”
Slot has emphasized that Liverpool will not hasten their search for a new midfielder following Zubimendi’s decision.
He highlighted that the club’s focus remains on signing the right player rather than simply acquiring someone who may not align with the team’s needs.
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