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Most Liverpool fans are already aware of the eventual summer saga of Martin Zubimendi.

The club identified Zubimendi, 25, as a prime target to fill the defensive midfield role under new head coach Arne Slot.

The Reds were prepared to activate his €60 million (£51.5 million) release clause, signaling their serious intent?

Initial discussions were promising, with reports suggesting that Zubimendi had given a positive indication towards the move.

However, in mid-August, he reversed his decision, opting to stay at Real Sociedad.

Zubimendi’s loyalty to Real Sociedad, where he has been since age 12, played a significant role in his choice to remain in San Sebastian.

This unexpected turn left Liverpool without a key midfield reinforcement.

The club decided against pursuing alternative targets, with Zubimendi’s unique skillset seemingly the only option on the market for Arne Slot and co.

Consequently, Ryan Gravenberch stepped into the defensive midfield role, delivering performances that have since reduced the urgency for a new signing in that position.

Infact, the Dutchman’s resurgence this season has almost made him feel like a new midfield signing.

However, it seems the club have not stopped looking across the waters at Zubimendi.

What did James Pearce report on Liverpool and Martin Zubimendi?

Writing in his Athletic Transfer DealSheet, the reporter has asserted that Liverpool are still interested in the Euro 2024 winner despite his transfer U-turn in the summer:

“Liverpool felt that Zubimendi had the perfect profile in terms of what Slot is looking for in a No 6 and they didn’t pursue an alternative in August because they felt no one else could offer the same skill set,” Pearce wrote.

“Their admiration for the Spain international remains strong.”

Furthermore, it is suggested that Real Sociedad and the player do not exactly agree on everything that happened over the  summer:

“The Anfield hierarchy believed he came under pressure from Real Sociedad to stay put at his boyhood club when he U-turned, having initially indicated that he was keen on completing the switch to Merseyside.”

“Real Sociedad and the player dispute that version of events.”

It then seems that those at Liverpool are really in love with Zubimendi, and could still look for a move in January or beyond.

Speaking earlier this month on the transfer speculation, the Spaniard said:

“There will always be rumours, and now that January is approaching, there will be too, but I don’t waste energy on outside noise.”

“I’m happy with the way I’m handling it, and I’m going to handle it,” he said, suggesting that he will be giving Liverpool the same answer if they do come calling again.

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