Sociedad's strategy to retain Zubimendi despite interest from Liverpool

TRANSFER NEWS ON MARTIN ZUBIMENDI: HOW REAL SOCIEDAD IS ATTEMPTING TO PERSUADE THE LIVERPOOL TARGET TO DECLINE A MOVE TO ANFIELD

Real Sociedad are taking decisive steps to prevent Liverpool from securing midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer. The Spanish club is fully committed to making the transfer as challenging as possible for the Premier League giants.

According to a report by The Times, Real Sociedad has laid out a detailed plan to keep Zubimendi. They are demanding that Liverpool meet the full £51 million ($65 million) release clause in a single payment rather than through installments. In addition to this financial stipulation, Sociedad has initiated a "charm offensive" aimed at convincing Zubimendi to remain with the club. This strategy involves efforts to appeal to Zubimendi's emotional connection to Sociedad, where he has been a loyal supporter and player since his youth.

Zubimendi has previously turned down approaches from major clubs including Barcelona, Arsenal, and Liverpool, demonstrating his strong ties to Sociedad. The current sentiment in Spain is one of optimism that he will choose to stay at the club where he has spent most of his career and feels settled, particularly following a notable performance in Euro 2024. In the summer's final match against England, Zubimendi contributed as a second-half substitute for Rodri, highlighting his role in Spain's successful campaign.

While Zubimendi has yet to make a definitive decision, earlier reports suggested he was open to the possibility of joining Liverpool. The allure of playing in the Premier League and the Champions League represents a significant opportunity for a player of his talent. The potential move is a complex situation, with Sociedad making every effort to retain their key midfielder amidst strong interest from one of Europe's top clubs.