Liverpool Set to Miss Out On Martin Zubimendi As Arsenal Close £50.5M Deal

Liverpool seem set to lose out on an opportunity to sign Martin Zubimendi, with Real Sociedad’s midfielder already in advanced talks to join Arsenal for a proposed fee of about €58m.

This news arrives as a blow to Reds fans: even before the season, the club was heavily linked with Zubimendi but could not acquire his signature. However, it appears the Spanish midfielder will end up at the Emirates rather than Anfield.

Nevertheless, it is clearer now what Liverpool’s strategy for the January transfer window will be, with the setback. As reported by The Athletic, Liverpool will only enter a market in a position that fits this financial model and the club’s ambitions.

This, of course, means Liverpool are not signing players purely for squad depth but players they have always desired and have the long-term vision for.

That Liverpool did not go straight back to actively pursue the services of Martin Zubimendi points towards the idea that they are happy with what they have in the midfield. However, Ryan Gravenberch is first considered to be a key player on the team given the future.

Gravenberch Seems Better Than Martin Zubimendi

Drawing a parallel of Gravenberch’s value with Zubimendi gives some idea about Liverpool’s confidence. The Dutch midfielder has done better compared to Zubimendi, especially in terms of creating chances, accuracy of passes, number of interceptions and recoveries.

Be that as it may, the strength of Zubimendi is that he is best suited to be a Number six as he excels in defensive attributes such as tackles.

Liverpool’s cautious approach in the transfer market, emphasizing sustainability and long-term value, aligns with the philosophy of Arne Slot and the club’s management.

While fans often yearn for new signings, especially after the unsuccessful attempt to secure Zubimendi, the team is focused on building for the future rather than seeking immediate solutions.

Liverpool fans will only have to wait as the current lineup, with Gravenberch in the mix, could go for everything this season.

Whether this will yield results remains to be seen; however, the club’s somewhat unequivocal approach suggests they are engaged in a very long-term process.