Liverpool target Martin Zubimendi responds to transfer speculation as fresh message sent

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has once again shut down rumours linking him with a move away from the La Liga club.

The 25-year-old was the subject of a transfer pursuit from Liverpool over the summer but he ultimately opted to remain with his current club. His decision to stay in his homeland seemingly hasn't deterred Premier League clubs as the Reds, Arsenal and Manchester City continue to be linked with Zubimendi.

A recent report from Spanish outlet Relevo indicates City view the midfielder as an ideal replacement for Rodri, who sustained an ACL injury earlier in the season. It has been suggested they could attempt to sign him when the transfer window reopens in January, and he would still be available for €60m given he is yet to pen a fresh contract with Sociedad.

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Despite the growing speculation surrounding his future, Zubimendi refused to be drawn into a discussion on his future when he spoke to the Spanish media ahead of their Nations League clash against Denmark on Friday evening.

As quoted by 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."

Zubimendi has spent his entire youth and senior career with the Basque club. He made his senior debut in 2019 and he has now amassed over 200 appearances.

He last signed a contract extension with Sociedad in October 2022, and his current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2027. Despite some reports suggesting he would sign a new deal when he decided to remain at the club over the summer, Zubimendi is yet to extend and still has just three years remaining on his contract.