Liverpool stance on Martin Zubimendi shows very clearly what it thinks about midfielder

Despite him turning down the chance to join Liverpool during the summer, the Reds may not have closed the door on Martin Zubimendi just yet .

The Real Sociedad midfielder was of course part of a transfer saga that many believed would end with him making the move to Anfield, only for him to turn down Liverpool’s advances in favor of staying with his boyhood club.

Having been identified as the club’s primary target for the No.6 role, the Reds were left reeling by his decision, and chose not to go after an alternative option. Sporting director Richard Hughes was said to have been left angered by Zubimendi’s decision , having believed he had given an unequivocal agreement that he would join Liverpool.

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It seems though that Zubimendi might not have completely burned his bridges with the Reds. According to Liverpool journalist David Lynch , Liverpool is refusing to rule out making another move for the Spanish international.

Although Ryan Gravenberch has impressed in the No.6 role this season, there is a feeling that Liverpool still needs to sign another option in the position, especially with Wataru Endo falling out of favor under Arne Slot , while Stefan Bajcetic is out on loan with Red Bull Salzburg.

Zubimendi’s failure to sign a new deal with Sociedad may also offer encouragement for Liverpool to make another attempt at his signature in January – it had been widely reported that the 25-year-old would be offered new terms as a reward for his loyalty, although that hasn’t come to fruition yet.

Should Liverpool decide to go back in for Zubimendi though, they could face some stiff competition. Reports in Spain, including from Relevo , have suggested Manchester City could also make a move for the midfielder after Rodri suffered a season-ending ACL injury.

Zubimendi though has played down suggestions that he could make another U-turn . "There are always rumors but until now I've always thought that the best solution for me is staying at Real Sociedad," he said during the international break. "I've still a lot of things to give to this club, I still want to grow and develop here."

Liverpool.com says: It’s always been clear just how highly Liverpool rates Zubimendi from their summer pursuit – the fact that they took an all-or-nothing approach shows the Reds view him as a player that would really improve them.

It wouldn’t be a huge surprise then if Liverpool made another play for him then, although they would need to make sure that Zubimendi is definitely set on leaving Sociedad this season. Considering their precarious position in La Liga, it might be a little easier to convince him part ways this time.