Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Liverpool's scouting department have reportedly been blown away by a potential alternative option to Martin Zubimendi ahead of the January transfer window.

The Reds tried and failed to bring Zubimendi to Anfield from Real Sociedad in the summer.

Arne Slot ultimately went without a midfield signing after the Spaniard, with a £49.8million release clause in his contract, rejected a move to Merseyside.

Zubimedi this month explained: "It was an uncomfortable time for me but I weighed the pros and cons and concluded that the best option was to stay.

There were many reasons for my decision, but I was selfish and thought about what was best for me – and that was staying."

Liverpool's midfield has been crucial to their success this season with Ryan Gravenberch performing at an outstanding level and Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones also impressing.

Dominik Szoboszlai was also a man of the match contender in Sunday's 6-3 rout of Tottenham which leaves the Reds four points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with a game in hand, on Christmas Day.

But Anfield Watch say Liverpool are still considering reinforcements in the position and that Zubimendi remains on their radar.

He came through Barcelona's academy and had a £830m (€1billion) release clause in his contract at the Nou Camp.

Barca have a buy-back clause for the Spain under-21 international which is active until June 2025 and worth just £24m.

Gonzalez has produced five goals and five assists in 24 outings for Porto and the report claims Liverpool's scouts have been hugely impressed by Gonzalez's performances.

Gonzalez is different stylistically to Zubimendi and would offer more of a box-to-box option.

His Porto contract also includes a buyout clause, but one that is dramatically lower than his previous one in Barcelona, at £49.8m (€60m).

That makes him a similar price to his countryman Zubimendi though he is three years younger.
For more news relating to Spurs, visit our sister site Spurs Latest Live.