Report: Liverpool Set for Transfer Battle as PSG Bow Out of Midfield Race | OneFootball

Report: Liverpool’s Clear Path to Joshua Kimmich as PSG Cool Interest

Liverpool’s transfer ambitions have hit a new high as they are reportedly in a strong position to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich on a free transfer next summer. According to reports from CaughtOffside, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have stepped back from pursuing Kimmich, which has opened up a “clear pathway” for Liverpool to make a move.

This comes after the Reds narrowly missed out on securing Martin Zubimendi, their top midfield target from Real Sociedad, over the summer. With Kimmich’s contract set to expire at the end of this season, Liverpool’s transfer strategy seems to be gaining momentum, aiming to secure a top-quality midfield signing to bolster their squad.

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A Prime Opportunity for Kimmich?

The news that PSG are “satisfied” with their current midfield options puts Liverpool in a strong position to target Kimmich. The German international is a versatile, experienced player with leadership qualities—traits that Liverpool will be keen to add to their midfield options. With Kimmich’s contract running out, the opportunity to sign a player of his calibre for a cut-price fee or even on a free transfer is simply too good to overlook.

According to CaughtOffside, clubs can begin talks with Kimmich over a pre-contract agreement from January, potentially setting the stage for a summer switch to Anfield. Bayern Munich, on the other hand, are expected to avoid losing Kimmich on a free transfer and could, therefore, accept a cut-price fee in the winter transfer window. Given Kimmich’s quality, there could be significant interest from other Premier League clubs, which means Liverpool may have to move quickly to secure his signature.

Martin Zubimendi: Still a Priority?

Although Kimmich has emerged as a strong option, sources indicate that Martin Zubimendi remains a priority target for Liverpool. The Reds were willing to pay the Spanish midfielder’s €60 million (£50.1 million) release clause over the summer, but Zubimendi opted to stay at Real Sociedad. However, Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit; both Manchester City and Arsenal are also showing interest in the 24-year-old.

TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent Fraser Gillan reported last week that a January move for Zubimendi to Anfield “definitely has legs,” suggesting that Liverpool’s interest is serious. With Man City eyeing cover for Rodri due to his ACL injury and Arsenal also reportedly interested, the battle for Zubimendi’s services could become intense as the winter window approaches.

The pursuit of Kimmich may well hinge on how the Zubimendi situation develops. If Liverpool face stiff competition for Zubimendi or fail to reach an agreement with Real Sociedad, then the focus could quickly turn towards securing Kimmich as a high-quality alternative.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Contract and Bayern’s Interest in Kelleher

In addition to Liverpool’s midfield plans, there is the ongoing situation with Trent Alexander-Arnold. The right-back’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, sparking interest from Real Madrid. However, Fabrizio Romano has reported that Alexander-Arnold’s priority is to stay at Liverpool, with a new deal expected to be signed soon.

While Liverpool are working to tie down one of their key assets, Bayern Munich have reportedly shown interest in Liverpool’s back-up goalkeeper, Caiomhin Kelleher. The Bundesliga side, looking for a long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer, view Kelleher as a potential signing. The Irishman is highly rated at Anfield but is reportedly seeking more playing time, particularly with the pending arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia.

Liverpool’s Midfield Conundrum and Transfer Ambitions

Liverpool’s search for midfield talent showcases their desire to build on their squad depth and quality, especially after a challenging summer in the transfer market. With Kimmich’s availability and PSG stepping aside, the Reds may have a golden opportunity to add world-class talent without breaking the bank.

Meanwhile, Zubimendi’s situation requires careful monitoring. Should Arsenal or Man City come in with a significant bid, Liverpool may need to pivot quickly to their Kimmich backup plan. The potential arrival of either midfielder would undoubtedly bring a different dynamic to Liverpool’s play and provide Arne Slot with the tactical flexibility needed to compete on multiple fronts.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The possibility of signing Joshua Kimmich is genuinely exciting. While Martin Zubimendi would be an excellent addition, Kimmich’s proven pedigree as a versatile, experienced midfielder fits Liverpool’s style perfectly. With Bayern reportedly open to letting Kimmich leave for a cut-price fee in January, Liverpool could potentially get a world-class player with leadership qualities, someone who can immediately step into the squad and make a difference.

The Reds’ midfield, still recovering from the departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, could benefit hugely from Kimmich’s range of passing, tenacity, and intelligence. He brings both defensive discipline and offensive creativity, which makes him an ideal candidate for a Premier League midfield that demands multi-dimensional players.

For fans, the possibility of adding a player like Kimmich or Zubimendi feels like a statement of intent. The midfield has been a work in progress over recent seasons, and a marquee signing like Kimmich would signify Liverpool’s ambitions to return to the top. While securing Zubimendi remains an appealing prospect, Kimmich’s wealth of experience and winning mentality might just make him the perfect fit for a side looking to challenge for titles once again.