Paul Joyce has reported that Liverpool are interested in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
The Real Sociedad defensive midfielder was part of the Spain squad that won Euro 2024.
He ended up making a significant impact for Spain, particularly in the final against England, where he replaced the injured Rodri at halftime and helped Spain clinch the title.
The 25-year-old has a reported release clause of €60 million, with Sociedad at risk of losing all of their key men.
Zubimendi is well-known to Richard Hughes, the sporting director of Liverpool, and shares an agent, Inaki Ibáñez, with Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola.
Known for his exceptional ball retention and passing ability, the Spanish international looks like the exact kind of profile Arne Slot wants in his possession-based approach
His ability to control the tempo of the game and provide defensive stability makes him an ideal candidate for Liverpool, especially as the club seeks to fill the void left by Fabinho’s departure last summer.
Zubimendi’s versatility would allow him to seamlessly integrate into Liverpool’s midfield, providing a reliable option in the defensive midfield position while allowing other players like Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai to operate further upfield.
Who is Martin Zubimendi and why does Liverpool want him?
Zubimendi is known for his tactical intelligence, composure on the ball, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game.
His role as a deep-lying playmaker allows him to shield the defense while also initiating attacks.
The 25-year-old excels in ball retention, spatial awareness, and precise passing, making him a vital component in both defensive and offensive transitions.
His ability to read the game and anticipate opponents’ moves makes him a standout player in the midfield.
During the 2023/24 season, Zubimendi made 31 La Liga appearances, scoring four goals and providing one assist. His performances were pivotal in helping Real Sociedad secure a place in the Champions League knockout stages.
His underlying statistics showcase a well-rounded midfielder capable of contributing both in and out of possession.
He ranks in the 81st percentile for aerial duels won, in the 77th percentiles for clearances, and in the 68th percentile for interceptions [FBref, compared to positional peers in Men’s Big 5 League over last 365 days].
Offensively, the Spaniard has maintained an 86% pass completion accuracy to go along with his 5 progressive passes per 90′, showing that he is capable of moving the ball forward while keeping a high pass accuracy.
Liverpool considering Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi . More @TimesSport
— paul joyce (@_pauljoyce) August 7, 2024
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