Paul Joyce has detailed what happened in the Martin Zubimendi transfer saga that has run on for the past two weeks or so.
Liverpool’s pursuit of the Real Sociedad midfielder was one of the more intriguing transfer sagas of the summer 2024 window, filled with optimism, intense negotiations, and ultimately, disappointment for the Reds.
With Arne Slot taking the helm at the beginning of June, it was always expected that the Dutchman would be making changes to the way the Reds played.
Unfortunately for Wataru Endo, it seems that he has fallen prey to this new way of playing on Anfield, with all signs pointing towards Endo being relegated to the bench for the opening game of the season.
As the summer progressed, Liverpool’s interest in Zubimendi intensified.
Widespread negotiations indicated that Liverpool had made significant strides in their pursuit, with the player reportedly giving his word to join the club.
This development fueled optimism among Liverpool supporters, who saw Zubimendi as a perfect fit for the team’s midfield setup under new head coach Arne Slot.
The Spanish international was expected to add much-needed stability and control in the middle of the park, and his technical attributes would be vital for how the Dutch manager wanted to play.
Negotiations between Liverpool and Real Sociedad appeared to be progressing well, with the Reds believed to be willing to meet the midfielder’s release clause, which was reportedly around €60 million.
However, just as the deal seemed to be on the verge of completion, the situation took an unexpected turn.
What did Paul Joyce say about Martin Zubimendi and Liverpool?
Despite initial indications that he was ready to leave, Zubimendi had a change of heart and decided to remain at Real Sociedad.
Reports emerged that the player’s loyalty to his boyhood club played a significant role in his decision.
Zubimendi has deep ties to Sociedad, having risen through the club’s youth ranks since the age of 12, and he ultimately chose to stay and continue his development in La Liga.
Now Paul Joyce has detailed what happened in the drama-fueled two weeks:
“At the end of July a two-man delegation from Anfield headed to San Sebastian, where they were given assurances that the player, who had previously turned down advances from Arsenal and Bayern Munich, would be willing to leave the Basque club he had joined at the age of 12,” the acclaimed journalist reported for The Times.
“The meetings lasted much of the day and involved the player’s agent, Iñaki Ibañez, and the party left believing a deal was possible, even if Zubimendi’s release clause of €60million (£51million) was expected to be paid in one sum.”
“They told Zubimendi he would have to trigger the clause himself rather than Sociedad coming to an agreement with Liverpool.”
“In other words, he would have to force his way out of the club that means everything to him, when he wanted to walk out of the front door with their blessing.”
“He opted not to do so and that was the moment the deal collapsed.”
So, it seems that Real Sociedad’s tactics worked in the end as they relied on Zubimendi’s character to not leave his boyhood club in a negative way.
Despite the setback, Liverpool remains active in the transfer market, exploring transfers for the likes of Valencia ‘keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
However, the Zubimendi saga will likely be remembered as a significant missed opportunity, particularly if Liverpool struggles in the upcoming season.
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