Journalist Confirms Liverpool are Out of the Race to Sign Midfielder | OneFootball

Zubimendi Snubs Liverpool for Arsenal: What It Means for the Reds

Liverpool fans have grown accustomed to transfer sagas, but the latest chapter — Martin Zubimendi’s decision to remain at Real Sociedad before a near-confirmed move to Arsenal — leaves a bitter taste. Sami Mokbel’s report in The Daily Mail sheds light on a missed opportunity for Liverpool, who saw the Spaniard as a potential anchor in their midfield.

Arsenal’s Gain, Liverpool’s Frustration

Arsenal’s acquisition of Zubimendi looks imminent, with Mokbel noting that talks are “at an advanced stage” and the Gunners plan to trigger the €60 million release clause. For Liverpool, who also attempted to secure Zubimendi, this comes as another frustrating reminder of recent transfer window disappointments.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s interest wasn’t fleeting; they were ready to match Sociedad’s demands. However, the Spaniard’s loyalty to his boyhood club saw him reject a move to Anfield in the summer of 2024. Fast forward a few months, and Arsenal appear to have succeeded where Liverpool failed.

Missed Targets in Midfield

The Zubimendi saga echoes Liverpool’s previous struggles to land elite midfielders. Last summer, Jurgen Klopp’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo ended with the Ecuadorian joining Chelsea. Aurélien Tchouaméni was another high-profile miss, with the Frenchman opting for Real Madrid instead.

Liverpool eventually signed Wataru Endo, but the Japanese international, while industrious, hasn’t matched the elite quality fans hoped for. The club’s midfield rebuild seemed on track with the emergence of Ryan Gravenberch, but Zubimendi’s defensive acumen would have offered greater stability.

Photo: IMAGO

Arsenal’s Timing and Intent

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have been deliberate in their pursuit of Zubimendi. Mokbel explains:

“The Real Sociedad star has been courted by Mikel Arteta for over 12 months.”

This methodical approach highlights the Gunners’ ambition to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season, with Jorginho and Thomas Partey nearing the end of their contracts. Arsenal’s need for a midfielder provided the impetus to finalise the deal, leaving Liverpool to rue another missed opportunity.

Liverpool’s Path Forward

Despite this setback, Liverpool’s midfield isn’t devoid of promise. Ryan Gravenberch has shown glimpses of brilliance in a deeper role, and Stefan Bajčetić offers a bright future if he can stay fit. However, questions remain about Liverpool’s ability to compete with rivals in the transfer market.

The Zubimendi disappointment underscores the need for Liverpool to act decisively and strategically in upcoming windows. If they are to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions, securing top-tier talent must be prioritised.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans have every right to feel disheartened by this latest transfer miss. Zubimendi’s blend of tactical intelligence and ball-winning ability would have been a perfect fit for Arne Slot’s system. His decision to join Arsenal only amplifies frustration over the club’s recent inability to close deals for world-class midfielders.

From Tchouaméni to Caicedo, and now Zubimendi, there’s a growing sense that Liverpool are losing ground in the market to rivals like Arsenal and Chelsea. While Gravenberch’s rise is encouraging, relying solely on internal solutions won’t suffice in the long term.

The club’s lack of midfield depth has already cost them crucial points this season. If Liverpool want to avoid falling further behind, they must address these transfer shortcomings swiftly and decisively. Fans are tired of watching marquee names slip through their fingers — it’s time for the club to deliver.