Earlier in the summer transfer season, HITC reported that Arsenal had identified Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as their top midfield target, with Mikel Arteta a major fan of the Spaniard.
However, we later claimed that Arsenal were willing to walk away from a deal for Zubimendi because there was a hunch that the midfielder preferred to stay in Spain.
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Despite this, HITC knows that efforts are underway to have Zubimendi become Arne Slot’s first signing of the summer.
HITC revealed that Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes moved forward with a transaction after being informed by intermediaries that a deal for Zubimendi was conceivable.
Hughes has begun negotiations with Zubimendi’s agency, Inaki Ibanez, whom he knows well from his time at Bournemouth, as they are the same representation of Andoni Iraola, whom he persuaded to take control at the Vitality Stadium.
Zubimendi was anticipated to stay with Real Sociedad this summer, but Liverpool’s approach for him has surprised them.
However, HITC can reveal that Sociedad has told Zubimendi in the last 24 hours that they will let him leave if he wants to, and that they are open to speak with Liverpool.
Zubimendi has a £51 million release clause in his contract but Liverpool are understood to rather pay that deal in installments whereas the release clause would require the Reds to play in full.
Talks are set to continue between the clubs but the most important conversations will be had with the player.
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