Liverpool has pinpointed Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi as their primary major acquisition this summer. Reports suggest that the Euro 2024 champion with Spain, who carries a release clause of £51m, is seen as a suitable candidate to occupy the defensive midfield position.
This role has required enhancement since Fabinho’s exit a year ago. Late in the transfer window, Japan international Wataru Endo was signed from Stuttgart for £16m, filling the gap temporarily after Liverpool missed out on several other prospects; however, the now 31-year-old was perceived as a stopgap measure.
Quick Guide
How do I sign up for sport breaking news alerts?
Show
- Download the Guardian app from the iOS App Store on iPhone or the Google Play store on Android by searching for ‘The Guardian’.
- If you already have the Guardian app, ensure you’re on the latest version.
- In the Guardian app, tap the Menu button at the bottom right, then navigate to Settings (the gear icon), and then Notifications.
- Enable sport notifications.
Throughout much of last season, Alexis Mac Allister operated as a No 6, and just last month, Liverpool declined a £12m offer from Marseille for Endo. A transfer for the 25-year-old Zubimendi would mark the initial significant transaction under the new sporting director, Richard Hughes, who mentioned last month that July would be relatively quiet due to ongoing international tournaments, but August would bring “a crescendo” of transfer activities.
Fulham defender Tim Ream has signed with Charlotte FC in MLS after spending nine years at Fulham, during which he made 312 appearances, ranking second in the 21st century behind Tom Cairney. “The memories made, the connections formed, and the people met along the way have made my time at Fulham truly special,” remarked the 36-year-old.
Meanwhile, Tottenham striker Alejo Véliz has been loaned to Espanyol for the season, following a stint on loan at Sevilla during the latter half of last term.
