Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has provided a fresh update on his future ahead of the January transfer window amid reported interest from clubs in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best deep-lying midfielders in La Liga and has spent his entire career with Real Sociedad, where he has made a total of 204 appearances in all competitions.
Zubimendi played in 31 La Liga matches for Imanol Alguacil's side as they finished sixth in the Spanish top flight last season, while he also made four appearances in Spain's triumphant Euro 2024 campaign.
The midfielder, who has since played in all 13 La Liga games for the San Sebastian-based club this term, was strongly linked with a big-money transfer to Liverpool in the summer at a time when Reds head coach Arne Slot was targeting the addition of a new defensive midfielder.
However, Zubimendi rejected a move to Liverpool in favour of staying at boyhood club Real Sociedad, and he has since denied rumours suggesting that he now regrets turning down a switch to Anfield.
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Man City, Arsenal, Liverpool to battle for Zubimendi?
It is understood that Liverpool still hold an interest in Zubimendi, but they could face stern competition for his signature from Premier League rivals Manchester City and Arsenal.
A recent report claimed that Zubimendi's €60m (£49.9m) release clause is 'not an obstacle' for interested parties including Man City, who are prepared to give Real Sociedad a 'long and hard winter' in their pursuit of the Spaniard.
Pep Guardiola's side have been tipped to bolster their midfield options in January now that Zubimendi's international teammate Rodri is ruled out for the rest of the season with an ACL injury.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are allegedly monitoring Zubimendi's situation, with Mikel Arteta said to be keen to add a new No.6 to his team to ensure they have 'maximum tactical options' in his midfield.
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Zubimendi addresses future amid PL interest
Zubimendi is currently away on international duty with Spain ahead of their UEFA Nations League fixtures with Denmark and Switzerland, and he has addressed the latest speculation about his club future.
Speaking to Estadio Deportivo, Zubimendi said: "There will always be rumours and now that January is approaching, there will be too, but I don't waste energy on outside noise.
"I'm happy with the way I'm handling it and I'm going to handle it."
Could Zubimendi leave Real Sociedad in January?
As things stand, Zubimendi does not appear to be pushing for an exit and remains content at Real Sociedad, who are also keen to keep hold of their star midfielder.
Zubimendi is under contract at the Reale Arena until June 2027, and will seemingly only leave Real Sociedad if an interested club activates his release clause and the player is persuaded to leave for an opportunity considered too good to turn down.
Oliver Thomas
