Transfer rocked by brutal demand as Reds’ top ace gets £51m price tag

Real Sociedad are reportedly increasing the pressure on Martin Zubimendi as Liverpool attempt to sign him, while the Reds will sell a striker if they receive a €60m (£51.3m) offer.

Zubimendi is Liverpool’s top target to improve their defensive midfield position, with new manager Arne Slot identifying the area as one that needs strengthening. Zubimendi has previously been linked with other Premier League giants such as Arsenal and Manchester United, but it is now Liverpool who are best placed to bring him to England.

The Spanish international is believed to be interested in a move to Anfield as he finally wants to take the next step in his career and move away from his boyhood club.

Liverpool are more than happy to pay Zubimendi’s release clause, which is set at £51.3m, considering it to be excellent value for money.

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However, it is taking time for Liverpool to finalise the deal as Sociedad are still trying to convince their player to stay.

Earlier on Monday, it emerged that Liverpool are stepping up their pursuit of Zubimendi by proposing a more lucrative contract. Sociedad, however, are pushing to keep either the 25-year-old or Arsenal target – and fellow midfielder – Mikel Merino.

Reliable Liverpool reporter Paul Joyce has now provided an update on the situation. He claims Sociedad are “increasing the pressure” on Zubimendi to stay, telling him he must activate his exit clause should he decide to join Slot at Liverpool.

Sociedad are playing on Zubimendi’s emotions as they know how difficult it will be for the Euro 2024 winner to leave the team he has spent his entire career with.

Martin Zubimendi to Liverpool under threat

Sociedad’s ultimatum has ‘put more stress’ on the player, making it less likely he will finalise personal terms with Liverpool.

Liverpool still believe they are in a good position to sign Zubimendi, but the transfer saga is in danger of becoming a bit of a mess as Sociedad ramp up their tricky tactics.

About that, The Athletic Liverpool are reported to be set to sell winger Luis Diaz if they receive a £51.3m bid this summer.

Diaz has been linked with a move to Barcelona in recent months, with the player’s camp understood to be keen on securing him a big-money move to Spain. Other potential suitors include Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

On Saturday, speculation surrounding Diaz’s future appeared to be coming to an end as Barca signed Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig.

But it is not out of the question for Diaz to leave Anfield during the current transfer window, with Liverpool ready to consider suitable offers for him.

Liverpool fans will be devastated to see the Colombian leave as he is one of the most exciting forwards in the Premier League. Although Diaz’s effectiveness in front of goal has been questioned as he has a tendency to miss big chances.

Selling Diaz for £51.3m would see Liverpool make a profit on the winger, having originally paid Porto £37.5m for him, plus £12.5m in potential add-ons.

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