Zubimendi 'plants' a 'giant' of Europe and seems to finally confirm his future

Real Sociedad begins to breathe a little easier regarding the future of one of its current best players: Martín Zubimendi. The 25-year-old midfielder from San Sebastian has become one of the most sought-after defensive midfielders in the 'Old Continent', attracting the interest of several top clubs that have already knocked on the door to secure his services this summer. A probe that, on the other hand, has been nothing but unsuccessful.

In this regard, the latest to fall into this race to sign the 'txuri-urdin' academy player was Liverpool. The 'Reds', as stated by various sources, expressed their willingness to trigger the midfielder's release clause, valued at around €60 million, being the only path left open by the 'white-and-blue' team for a possible departure of one of their key midfielders.

Why did the Liverpool-Zubimendi deal fall through?

Now, why did the transaction not proceed as planned? Simply put: although the financial demands of the Basque could have been met, there was still a factor to consider: Zubimendi's desires. At this point, as suggested by 'Relevo', the player once again chose to prioritize continuing with Real Sociedad, a team with which he will compete, among other things, in the Europa League this 2024/25 season and with whom he is contracted until 2027.

Following this and as a reward for his show of commitment to those from San Sebastian, the midfielder, pending official confirmation, will become one of the highest-paid players in Imanol Alguacil's squad. He will also emerge as one of the great symbols of the 'white-and-blue' team and a key piece in a midfield that seems increasingly close to suffering the significant loss of Mikel Merino.

FC Barcelona sees the future of the player from San Sebastian from a distance

In this respect, a club that sees this situation from a distance is FC Barcelona. Why? Well, because Zubimendi interested the Catalan club at one point and, as of today, he remains an attractive option to reinforce the midfield. Although currently not seemingly an option on the Blaugrana's agenda, which apparently ruled out acquiring a midfielder this summer, knowing that he is still 'on the table' in case the Catalan team wishes to bet on him, being able to trigger his release clause, remains a positive note for the team from the City of Barcelona. However, if Barça wants the player from San Sebastian, they will have to offer him a very attractive sports proposal, enough for him to consider leaving Anoeta.