Liverpool: ‘Next big signing’ is ‘chosen’ after ‘shock Zubimendi rejection’ as FSG decide ‘great desire’
According to reports, Liverpool have ‘chosen’ their ‘next big signing’ after they were rejected by Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi earlier this summer.
Liverpool are yet to make a signing during this summer’s window and earlier this month, they were dealt a blow as Spain international Zubimendi rejected them.
The Premier League giants made it their priority to sign a new No.6 and Zubimendi emerged as their preferred target after he shone last season.
The 25-year-old – who has a £51m release clause in his contract – was initially expected to accept a move to Liverpool, but he had a main reason for rejecting the transfer.
It’s subsequently been widely reported that Liverpool are unlikely to sign an alternative this summer, but Football Insider claims they are intending to pursue an ‘A-list’ transfer in January.
‘The Reds’ transfer chiefs were caught out by Zubimendi’s decision as they believed they had done enough to convince him to make the move.
‘Despite this, they are keen not to rush into an alternative deal after missing out and will take their time to assess their options.
‘Slot is willing to wait until January to land the right profile of player, rather than bringing in a new name who wouldn’t fit the system in the way he wants.’
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And a new report in Spain claims Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes is Liverpool’s ‘great desire’ as he has been ‘chosen’ after ‘Zubimendi’s shock rejection’.
Guimaraes has emerged as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League following his move to Newcastle, but he has been linked with a move elsewhere this summer.
Earlier this summer, it was suggested that Newcastle could cash in on the Brazil international as they looked to avoid a points deduction for breaching the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
Their need to sell players has eased in recent months as they have sold Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson to Brighton and Nottingham Forest respectively, but Guimaraes continues to be linked with a move away.
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The report in Spain claims Liverpool ‘still want to strengthen in midfield’ and Guimaraes ‘could be their next big signing’.
‘Liverpool have been left in need of urgent midfield reinforcements, and the Brazilian has emerged as the top target.
‘Liverpool, who have suffered significant losses in their midfield, see Guimaraes as the perfect combination of quality, vision and attacking ability. The Brazilian’s versatility makes him an ideal player to fit into Arne Slot’s dynamic and attacking style of play.
‘However, the operation will not be simple or cheap. Newcastle, aware of the player’s value and importance, would not be willing to let him go for a low fee, and there is speculation that his price could reach three figures.
‘This high cost represents a significant obstacle for Liverpool, who have already made significant investments in their squad in recent transfer windows. However, the need to strengthen the midfield could lead the club to make a considerable financial effort to secure Guimaraes.’
