Zubimendi Snubs Premier League Giants: Liverpool & Arsenal Left Waiting

Martin Zubimendi Chooses Loyalty Over Transfer Buzz: A Blow for Liverpool and Arsenal

Image by Gustavo Campos from Pixabay.

Premier League giants Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City have hit a roadblock in their pursuit of Martin Zubimendi, as the Spanish midfielder seems set to stay at Real Sociedad. Despite heavy interest and high-profile rumors, Sociedad’s sporting director has expressed full confidence that the player will remain in Spain—for now.

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Premier League Interest Intensifies

Liverpool had come close to signing Zubimendi during the summer transfer window, but a deal failed to materialize. Arsenal’s midfield rebuild and Manchester City’s temporary void left by Rodri only fueled interest in the highly rated Spaniard.

Zubimendi’s intelligent positioning, ball control, and passing accuracy make him a top candidate for teams seeking a deep-lying playmaker. However, convincing the player to leave his boyhood club is proving to be a challenge.

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Real Sociedad's Firm Stance

Real Sociedad’s sporting director, Roberto Olabe, publicly stated his belief that Zubimendi will stay at the club. According to Olabe:

"Martin represents the spirit of this club. He’s not just a player for us—he’s a symbol of our philosophy. We’re confident he will stay."

While that sounds reassuring for Sociedad fans, Olabe's upcoming departure in June may change the club’s transfer dynamics. With a new leadership structure on the horizon, the next transfer window could still open possibilities.

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Zubimendi’s Loyalty to La Liga

The 24-year-old midfielder has repeatedly voiced his loyalty to Sociedad and the development system that shaped his career. In past interviews, he has emphasized the importance of playing regular football in a familiar environment—especially with UEFA Champions League qualification within reach for Sociedad this season.

His current contract runs until 2027, and while there is a release clause of around €60 million, triggering it would still depend on Zubimendi’s willingness to leave.

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Liverpool, Arsenal, and City: What Now?

All three English clubs are now evaluating alternate options. Liverpool is looking for a long-term replacement for Thiago Alcântara, while Arsenal needs depth behind Declan Rice and Thomas Partey. Manchester City, too, is keeping tabs on multiple midfielders due to Rodri’s ongoing fitness concerns and potential squad reshuffling in the summer.

Zubimendi's decision has added complexity to their January transfer strategies.

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What’s Next?

While a move this winter looks unlikely, the summer transfer window could reignite talks. Should Real Sociedad miss out on European football or undergo structural changes post-Olabe, clubs might see a renewed opportunity.

Until then, Martin Zubimendi remains a pillar at Real Sociedad—and one of the hottest midfield talents in Europe.