Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has suggested the club will continue to rely on their current squad after failing to secure the signing of Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, though he acknowledged that transfer activities are still ongoing behind the scenes.
The Spanish international midfielder was reportedly close to making a £51 million move to Anfield.
However, a late charm offensive from Real Sociedad convinced Zubimendi to remain at Anoeta, thwarting Liverpool’s transfer plans.
“I said many times already our squad is really strong so it is not easy to find players to strengthen.
“Zubimendi was one but he chose not to come here so we go forward with the one we have,” Arne Slot said.
“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.”
Slot took over at Anfield at the start of the summer following Jurgen Klopp’s departure after a nine-year tenure.
Despite the managerial change, Slot has not made any new signings, while rivals have strengthened their squads.
Last summer, Liverpool made significant moves in the transfer market, bringing in four midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch.
The quartet will be aiming to build on their performances in their second season with the club.
Slot’s team will kick off their Premier League campaign against Ipswich Town on Saturday.
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