Last summer, Martín Zubimendi nearly secured a transfer to Liverpool. However, the Basque player decided against the move. With Ryan Gravenberch’s remarkable performances under Arne Slot, the Real Sociedad midfielder no longer seems destined for The Reds. Now, Real Madrid might be his next destination.
AS: ‘Real Madrid targets Zubimendi for €60 million, as Gravenberch excels at Liverpool’
According to the Spanish newspaper AS, Los Blancos are urgently seeking to bolster their midfield. “Toni Kroos has retired, Casemiro left for Manchester United two years ago, and Luka Modrić will turn 40 in September. Real Madrid is eager to rejuvenate their midfield and has set sights on Martín Zubimendi.”
The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder is a Spanish international. “They see him as a playmaker akin to Xabi Alonso in the past or Rodri now—a player capable of orchestrating Madrid’s entire game from the center.” Zubimendi has a release clause of €60 million, and his contract with La Real extends until the summer of 2027.
This summer, Zubimendi was on the brink of a move to Liverpool. At the last moment, however, the Basque player opted to stay, deciding against joining Arne Slot’s team. Currently leading the Premier League, Liverpool seems less interested due primarily to Ryan Gravenberch’s stellar performances in midfield. The Dutchman has become one of the key factors behind Slot’s success at Liverpool.
According to AS, Real Madrid is not the only club interested. “His agent, Iñaki Ibáñez, has also held discussions with Barcelona.”
The issue dates back to Xavi Hernández’s tenure as coach, a period marked by the club’s financial struggles. Zubimendi was particularly impressive in the final of the European Championship last summer. Although Rodri had to exit due to an injury at halftime, Spain still managed to stay dominant and ultimately secured the European title.
