Liverpool failed to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi last summer but were able to return with another try.
Zubimendi saw his stock rise as he played his part in Spain's Euro 2024 victory, coming off the bench to replace Rodri in the final. Liverpool wanted to land his services this summer, but the 25-year-old ultimately opted to stay in La Liga.
However, he is open to leaving the Spanish club next summer, the Daily Express reports. Zubimendi is believed to have a £50 million buyout clause in his contract and there are rumors that Sociedad are looking to offer the midfielder a new contract to remove the clause.
However, there has been no update on that front, meaning the Merseyside outfit could land the Euro winner for a relatively modest fee in the current market, especially considering the quality of the player and his age profile.
Liverpool ultimately made no major signings in the summer, which was Arne Slot's first chance and changed the look of the squad. Federico Chiesa was their only signing, but the Italian barely featured, not that this has stopped the Reds from excelling this season.
In midfield, Slot has been able to unlock the potential of Ryan Gravenberch, while the likes of Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have all played their part.
Contract Van Dijk speaks about progress
The Reds have made a contract offer to Virgil van Dijk, according to Athletic, as they want to end the uncertainty over his future. The Dutchman is one of three key players – Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold the others – who are currently free to leave in the summer.
Discussions with Van Dijk have revealed that Liverpool have made an opening bid to retain the centre-back, but it has not met his expectations and so far there has been no breakthrough on the value or length of an extension, reports Athletic. The discussions have gone on for some time and are still continuing.
Van Dijk's age has not diminished his performance and in last weekend's win over Manchester City, the defender underlined his value with another great performance.
He is also a clear favorite with the Slots and is one of only three Liverpool players, alongside Salah and Ryan Gravenberch, to have started every Premier League and Champions League match.
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