Liverpool have been dealt a massive blow in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has opted to remain at his boyhood club this summer, according to Spanish journalist Picon.
The Reds had been confident of securing the 25-year-old’s signature after receiving assurances that he was open to a move to Anfield.
However, the Spanish midfield maestro pulled off a last-minute U-turn and decided to snub the Premier League giants in favour of remaining with La Real.
Liverpool’s interest in the midfielder had been piqued by his impressive performances for both club and country.
The Reds had already informed Sociedad that they were prepared to meet the player’s £51 million release clause.
However, Sociedad’s steadfast refusal to negotiate a lower fee and Zubimendi’s change of heart has left Arne Slot’s side empty-handed.
Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes had identified the Spaniard as the ideal profile for their vacant No. 6 role.
They believed he would complement their existing midfield options, with Wataru Endo the only recognised defensive midfielder in the squad.
The player’s agent, Inaki Ibanez, who also represents the likes of Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola, was a familiar face to Hughes during his time at Bournemouth.
Hughes dealt with Ibanez when he brought Iraola to Bournemouth but has failed to secure the signature of Sociedad’s coveted midfielder.
It is understood that Zubimendi decided to remain at Sociedad after the La Liga club gave him two days to determine his future.
The Basque club have already lost defender Robin Le Normand to Atletico Madrid this summer and are set to see Mikel Merino join Arsenal, so they were desperate to retain Zubimendi’s signature for one more season.
Zubimendi featured 45 times in all competitions for Sociedad last season, notching four goals and an assist.
As the transfer window enters its final stages, Liverpool will now have to reassess their midfield options and explore alternative targets to bolster their squad.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
