Liverpool’s view on Martin Zubimendi January transfer after summer rejection

Liverpool could make another move for Spanish star Martin Zubimendi despite suffering a major blow from one of their rivals.

The Reds appeared to be on the verge of signing the midfielder this summer. Liverpool were prepared to activate the €60 million (£50.1 million) release clause in his contract with the Spanish side.

But a move didn't come to fruition when Zubimendi made a move and decided to stay at Sociedad. However, Liverpool could yet reignite their interest in the 25-year-old.

The Reds still believe Zubimendi had the perfect profile for Arne Slot's system. And they reportedly decided that no alternative offered the same skills, so they didn't move forward with signing another option.

According to The Athletic, their admiration for the midfielder remains great. Their relationship with Zubimendi also remains unaffected, with Anfield chiefs believing Sociedad were more responsible for the turnaround than the midfielder himself.

And while that appears to be the case, Zubimendi insisted he had no regrets about turning down a move to Anfield. As Noticias De Gipuzkoa quoted earlier this year, he said: “I have experienced uncomfortable moments. The best 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 that.

“Of course I don't regret it, I can't think of that after four or five games at the start of the season. I made my decision from within, I thought it was the best thing to do, the results don't.” I see potential in this team, you just have to see us training and I'm excited about having a good season.”

Elsewhere, Slot insisted Liverpool had moved on from Zubimendi. He said: “There is no point in talking about Zubimendi anymore because he stayed at Real Sociedad and we have moved on and we are very happy with Ryan.

“You see a Ryan who is full of confidence and that normally comes with good performances and trust in your teammates and knowing that you can do what you need to do at that level.”

While Liverpool remain admirers of Zubimendi, they could face competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal. The Gunners are also interested in the midfielder and reports in Spain recently claimed he was close to accepting an offer from the Emirates Stadium ahead of next season.