Martin Zubimendi could face the same problem at Liverpool and Manchester City a the player's transfer stance becomes clear.

The Reds hoped to complete a move for the Real Sociedad midfielder back in the summer, but the Spain international opted to call off any deal and remain with his boyhood club. However, interest in his services has not waned as Liverpool are no longer the only club linked with a move.

City are in desperate need of midfield depth after key man Rodri suffered an ACL injury back in September. Pep Guardiola's side have struggled for form ever since and now sit seventh in the Premier League table, 14 points off Liverpool in top spot.

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More recent reports from Spain suggest Zubimendi has now come to terms with the idea of leaving Sociedad, which has only increased speculation surrounding his future. A move in January still seems unlikely, but that hasn't stopped links with the Premier League from resurfacing.

Due to their injuries, City have been heavily tipped to move for Zubimendi ahead of the transfer window, although a recent report from The Times suggests a deal may complicated. While the current champions could certainly do with a Zubimendi-like player for the second half of the season, the article suggests the 25-year-old would be wary of losing his place in the team to Rodri when his compatriot returns to fitness next year.

While reports suggest Liverpool remain admirers of the player, it's worth noting they too could now face a similar stumbling block if they were to pursue him again. Last summer, there was a glaring hole in Arne Slot's midfield that desperately needed filling and everything pointed to Zubimendi being the one to solve the long-standing issue.

Yet, when the move fell apart, Liverpool didn't re-enter the market for alternative options. Instead, Slot turned to the players already within his ranks and Ryan Gravenberch was given the opportunity to make the role his own.

It's fair to say the Dutchman has exceeded expectations this season and he has become one the most integral figures in Slot's team. While depth in midfield at Liverpool could always be improved, if Zubimendi is wary of what his role would be at Manchester City, the same could now be said for Liverpool given Gravenberch's remarkable rise.

Zubimendi would no longer be a guaranteed starter if he was to move to Anfield, especially as Alexis Mac Allister continues to shine. Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones are also enjoying strong seasons, while Harvey Elliott has recently returned from a long-term injury.