Martin Zubimendi is back in the spotlight following claims that the midfielder regrets turning down Liverpool’s summer offer. According to Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo, the midfielder has requested Liverpool to return with a new offer in January.
While the story is questioned considering its source, the Reds will have another chance to speak with Real Sociedad in January. Last window, Liverpool was informed unequivocally that Zubimendi was looking to leave his Spanish employers.
But the ECHO uncovered that the midfielder had made a last-minute U-turn due to internal pressure over his £52 million buy-out clause. It is understood that the player was urged to assist in meeting that sum himself in order to secure an escape.
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The 25-year-old ultimately informed Liverpool of his decision in mid-August, with the club failing to find a replacement before the window closed. However, there is a glimmer of hope courtesy to an admission from La Real’s president, despite the player himself expressing his allegiance to the club. Slot has not tried to disguise his admiration for Zubimendi.
Slot: It is disappointing?
He addressed the failed transfer a few days after Zubimendi notified the club of his intentions in mid-August. “I said many times already that I think our squad is really strong, and it’s not so easy to find players that can help us or can even strengthen the squad,” according to him.
“Zubimendi was one of them, to be fair, but he chose not to attend. We continue to use the ones we have, which performed admirably throughout preseason.
“Richard [Hughes] is attempting to enhance the squad as much as possible, but Zubimendi has opted not to come. He [Hughes] made every attempt to bring him in, but if a player does not want to come, it is clear that he will not come.”
Zubimendi: There was no pressure!
In an interview with Marca in September, Zubimendi attempted to downplay the fact that he had been forced to stay. “My friends are clear that whatever I decide will be the best – there is no pressure whatsoever,” said the politician.
“For me, Real Sociedad is my life; I believe I’ve spent half my life there. La Real encompasses so much of who I am; it is my life.”
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