Liverpool might be mulling over whether to approach Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi again next month.
Liverpool will be waiting to learn the extent of Martin Zubimendi’s injury setback after the midfielder was forced off with a problem in Real Sociedad’s 3-0 win over Leganes on Sunday. Sociedad boss Imanol Alguacil described the situation as “serious” given the player asked to be removed.
Liverpool are not expected to have a busy January but could be tempted to re-approach Zubimendi. The 25-year-old was being lined up for a switch to Anfield this summer before the player performed a U-turn.
There had been rumours that the Spaniard was regretting his decision but the defensive midfielder later rubbished those claims and insisted he wasn’t pressured to stay at Real. “I went through uncomfortable moments,” he admitted in October.
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“The best thing for me was to stay here and I am happy and at peace. Because of the press there is a lot of noise but in the end everything is easier than all that. Of course I don’t regret it, I can’t think that after four or five games at the start of the season.”
Real Sociedad are now sweating over Zubimendi’s fitness after he picked up a knock to the back five minutes after half-time in Sunday’s clash. “Zubimendi and Aihen Munoz asked me to change them, and it seems serious,” Sociedad manager Alguacil said afterwards.
The severity of his setback has yet to be confirmed but Spanish outlet Relevo claims the problem is not thought to be long term, with the pivot anticipated to return before the end of the year. If accurate, Liverpool may still fancy a transfer approach in January.
But if it does turn out to be something more sinister, the Reds may think twice about a pursuit. There is no certainty the club will make a move for Zubimendi with Ryan Gravenberch playing excellently as the number six this season.
Liverpool also have Wataru Endo if needed while Alexis Mac Allister has played there before. Furthermore, towards the end of the draw with Newcastle United, Curtis Jones was used as the lynchpin – all which indicates Zubimendi might not necessarily be required.
The club may be keen to wrap up contract renewals for Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk before the new year. Both enter the final six months of their current deals from January 1, from which point all three can sign pre-contract agreements with overseas clubs.
