The Athletic have provided an update on Liverpool and their transfer plans after the exhausting Martin Zubimendi saga.
As the summer transfer window edges closer to its deadline, Liverpool’s glaring need for a defensive midfielder—commonly referred to as a No. 6—has become a major talking point among fans and pundits alike.
The club’s pursuit of Martin Zubimendi has ended in disappointment, with the Spanish midfielder opting to stay at Real Sociedad instead of moving to Anfield.
Zubimendi, who has turned down Bayern Munich and Arsenal in the past, was reportedly eager to move to Anfield.
In response to Liverpool’s interest, the La Liga squad went on the charm offensive, offering the 25-year-old a better deal in an attempt to convince him to stay put.
Before telling Richard Hughes that he planned to stay at Real Sociedad, Zubimendi is reported to have negotiated with Liverpool for almost two weeks.
This decision is a significant blow to Liverpool, who had identified Zubimendi as a key target for bolstering their midfield under new manager Arne Slot.
What did the Athletic report on Liverpool transfer plans?
Liverpool fans have voiced their frustration on social media, with many questioning the club’s transfer strategy.
The absence of a dedicated No. 6 is seen as a major weakness that could derail the team’s ambitions for the upcoming season – with the Premier League opener against Ipswich Town mere days away.
Manager Arne Slot’s tactical setup, which requires a reliable holding midfielder that possess technical expertise, is now under threat.
Relying on internal options like Ryan Gravenberch or Curtis Jones to fill the role carries risks.
While both players have potential, neither possesses the defensive instincts or experience that a seasoned No. 6 brings to the table.
With Wataru Endo seemingly struggling to impress Arne Slot in pre-season, the Athletic have now provided an update on what is next for Liverpool and their No.6 quest.
Writing in the Transfer Dealsheet, James Pearce has revealed news that Liverpool fans may not want to hear:
“Liverpool insist there is no Plan B, and they are currently unlikely to pursue an alternative to Zubimendi, who was identified as a target because he fitted their profile for the No 6 role and they believed he was available.”
“However, it remains to be seen if that stance changes in the window’s final 18 days, given that the holding midfield position has been an area of concern throughout pre-season.”
“Wataru Endo has struggled to adapt to Slot’s more possession-based approach. Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai have also played there but they are all more effective further forward.”
With the transfer window closing soon, Liverpool’s recruitment team is under immense pressure to deliver a suitable No. 6.
The need for reinforcements is clear, but the options are dwindling. If Liverpool fails to secure a signing, it could significantly impact their ability to challenge for silverware this season.
But as things stand, it will be the same midfield Jurgen Klopp worked wonders with last term to usher in the Arne Slot era.
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