Rejection claim emerges as Gravenberch is backed to ‘flourish’
Liverpool ongoing pursuit of Martin Zubimendi continues to gain traction amid talk of a fresh approach from the Reds in January, while new claims have come to light at just how agonisingly close they were to his summer signing and the impact it had on Ryan Gravenberch.
Arne Slot made a beeline for the Euro 2024 winner over the summer after earmarking the Real Sociedad as a perfect addition to bolster his Liverpool midfield. But despite agreeing to meet the €60m (£50.3m, $64m) release clause in his deal and agreeing personal terms with the player, Zubimendi had a late change of heart and opted to remain with his hometown club
Following that rejection, Liverpool have gone on to enjoy a scintillating start to the season, winning 19 of their 22 games played across all competitions so far.
Strong reports last week claimed Zubimendi has now had a change of heart over a possible move to Anfield and that a 2025 transfer could be on the cards after all.
In the meantime, former Reds winger turned TV pundit Steve McManaman has revealed just how close Zubimendi came to joining the Reds over the summer, even claiming he was pictured with the Liverpool shirt on.
only two in that position.”
Turning his focus to Gravenberch, McManaman explained why he think the player will only get better and better under Slot.
“He’s 22 years of age. He got a bit lost at Bayern with injuries and not getting chosen and the manager, whether the fact that Arne Slot of course knows the Dutch league, knows what he’s like, is a Dutchman himself, put faith in him but he’s responded in kind.
You only expect him to get better and better and better. Let’s hope he stays free of any injury and he will flourish.”
for Zubimendi?
Despite Zubimendi’s decision to remain in San Sebastian, the player continues to be heavily linked with a move to the Premier League.
And while Arsenal are one of those sides persistently linked with his signature, reports have stated that Pep Guardiola is also pushing to bring the player to Manchester City in the January window as he seeks to replace the influential Rodri in his midfield after his season-ending ACL injury