Liverpool ready to trigger Martin Zubimendi's €60m release clause - midfielder 'very attracted' by proposal as Real Sociedad wait on transfer decision

Per The Athletic, Liverpool are exploring a deal to sign Zubimendi from Real Sociedad this summer. The Reds are in the market for a new defensive midfielder, and the club have identified the Euro 2024 winner as a key potential target. He has a release clause of £52m ($66m) in his contract, but it would need to be paid in full to secure the player's signature, provided La Real are not willing to countenance a reduction. Moreover, journalist Mikel Recalde claims the Reds are 'very serious' about signing the 25-year-old, are willing to meet his release clause, and the player is very keen on a transfer.

Zubimendi has interest from a number of suitors; Arsenal and Barcelona have been linked, as have Manchester United. Although interested parties have thus far failed to convince him to leave San Sebastian, this new development could cause a domino effect for a possible Liverpool move.

Zubimendi was a part of Spain's Euro 2024-winning squad, playing in the last group game against Albania, and also coming on as a substitute in the final after Rodri's injury. Liverpool have been left light in midfield by Thiago's retirement, with Jordan Henderson and Fabinho having been sold in previous windows.

Liverpool will hope to secure a deal for a new number six before the start of the Premier League season. They play Ipswich Town in their curtain-raiser on August 17 - six days after their final pre-season friendly at home to Sevilla.