FSG Owners Made Martin Zubimendi Call Before $65M Liverpool Transfer Fell Through
FSG Owners Made Martin Zubimendi Call Before $65M Liverpool Transfer Fell Through
Liverpool Football Club’s pursuit of Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi took a dramatic turn as a potential $65 million transfer fell through at the final stages. The transfer, which was seen as a significant move to strengthen the Reds’ midfield, ultimately collapsed despite efforts by the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), to secure the deal.
Liverpool’s interest in Martin Zubimendi, the highly-rated 24-year-old midfielder from Real Sociedad, has been well-documented throughout the summer transfer window. Zubimendi, known for his exceptional ball control, passing range, and tactical intelligence, was identified by Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp as a key target to bolster the team’s midfield options following the departure of key players like James Milner and Jordan Henderson.
Negotiations between Liverpool and Real Sociedad progressed positively, with the Spanish club initially indicating their willingness to part with Zubimendi for a fee of around $65 million. Zubimendi himself was reportedly open to the move, attracted by the prospect of playing in the Premier League and working under Klopp.
As the transfer talks reached a critical juncture, FSG, Liverpool’s American ownership group, became directly involved in the negotiations. John W. Henry, principal owner of FSG, and Liverpool chairman Tom Werner made a personal call to Martin Zubimendi in an attempt to convince the midfielder of the club’s long-term vision and the pivotal role he would play at Anfield.
During the call, Henry and Werner emphasized Liverpool’s commitment to maintaining their status as one of Europe’s elite clubs and outlined how Zubimendi’s qualities would fit perfectly within Klopp’s tactical setup. They also assured him of Liverpool’s ambition to compete for major trophies and highlighted the club’s rich history and passionate fanbase.
A source close to the negotiations revealed, “FSG’s involvement was a clear indication of how highly Liverpool valued Zubimendi. They wanted to ensure that he understood the project at Liverpool and how integral he would be to their plans moving forward.”
Despite the proactive efforts by FSG and the positive discussions between all parties, the deal ultimately fell through. The breakdown reportedly stemmed from a combination of factors, including Real Sociedad’s last-minute decision to increase their asking price and Zubimendi’s reservations about leaving his boyhood club.
Real Sociedad, recognizing Zubimendi’s importance to their squad and the growing interest from other top European clubs, raised their valuation of the midfielder to a figure that Liverpool deemed excessive. Additionally, Zubimendi, who has spent his entire career at Real Sociedad, was said to be torn between his loyalty to the club and the allure of a move to Anfield.
In the end, Zubimendi decided to remain at Real Sociedad, signing a contract extension that includes a release clause reportedly set at €80 million. The midfielder expressed his gratitude to Liverpool for their interest but reaffirmed his commitment to his current club.
“I’m honored by Liverpool’s interest and the conversations I had with the club,” Zubimendi said in a statement. “However, my heart remains with Real Sociedad, and I believe there is still much more to achieve here. I look forward to continuing my journey with the team that has given me everything.”
The collapse of the Zubimendi deal has left Liverpool exploring alternative options to reinforce their midfield. With the summer transfer window nearing its close, the club is under pressure to secure the right additions that align with Klopp’s vision for the team.
Reports suggest that Liverpool may now turn their attention to other midfield targets, including Aurelien Tchouameni of Real Madrid and Youri Tielemans, who is available on a free transfer after leaving Leicester City. Klopp is believed to be determined to add quality and depth to his midfield, especially with the team competing on multiple fronts in the upcoming season.
Liverpool’s sporting director, Julian Ward, is expected to lead the renewed efforts to identify and sign a suitable alternative to Zubimendi. The club remains confident that they will secure the necessary reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
While the failure to land Zubimendi is undoubtedly a setback, FSG remains fully committed to supporting Liverpool’s ambitions. The ownership group has invested significantly in the squad over the years, bringing in key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson Becker, who have all played vital roles in the club’s recent successes.
John W. Henry, reflecting on the transfer saga, stated, “We are always looking to strengthen our squad and provide Jürgen and his team with the best possible resources to succeed. While it’s disappointing that we couldn’t finalize the deal for Martin, we will continue to work tirelessly to bring in the right players to help Liverpool compete at the highest level.”
The transfer that could have seen Martin Zubimendi don the famous red jersey of Liverpool ultimately did not materialize, despite the concerted efforts of FSG and Liverpool’s management. As the club turns its focus to other targets, the ambition and commitment to success remain undiminished.
Liverpool fans will be eagerly awaiting the next moves in the transfer market, hopeful that the club will secure the talent needed to maintain their position among Europe’s elite.
