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

Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad has been linked with Liverpool(Image: Angel Martinez - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

Martin Zubimendi has admitted he was caught by surprise when Liverpool tried to sign him last summer and but did not find it difficult to reject the Reds.

Arne Slot's side had agreed to pay the Real Sociedad midfielder’s release clause, only for the Spain international to U-turn at the 11th hour and reject their advances.

With Ryan Gravenberch instead shining as Liverpool’s number six this season, the Reds admittedly have few regrets regarding how their failed pursuit turned out.

But now Zubimendi, whose future in San Sebastian remains the subject of speculation and scrutiny despite his decision to stay put at his boyhood club last summer, has now opened up and explained why he really changed his mind as he conceded it was a 'selfish' decision to stay put.

READ MORE:'Biggest mistake of my life' - Son Heung-min turned down Jurgen Klopp transfer but Liverpool had last laughREAD MORE:Liverpool are about to find out what Trent Alexander-Arnold really means about 'legacy'

“I went on vacation, and it caught me by surprise,” he told El Diario Vasco.

“It wasn’t something I had planned.

“I reacted when the situation arose.

It was an uncomfortable time for me but I weighed the pros and cons and concluded that the best option was to stay.

“I don’t believe in 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunities.

There’s no need to rush.

Article continues below

“I looked at my personal progression, who I am, and the club’s project.

It wasn’t that hard of a decision.

“There were many reasons for my decision, but I was selfish and thought about what was best for me.