Real Sociedad suffer 'surprise' transfer blow after Liverpool talks and Martin Zubimendi snub

If Liverpool are to reignite their interest in Martin Zubimendi next summer they will have someone different to deal with at Real Sociedad. The Basque club's director of football Roberto Olabe is set to leave at the end of the current campaign.

According to a report from The Athletic, the news represents a 'surprise development that will place some of the game's leading clubs on high alert.'

As noted in the report, Olabe was involved in negotiations with the Reds over the potential sale of Zubimendi, who emerged as the club's major target during the summer.

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Eventually, the Spain international opted against a move to Merseyside. As reported by Ian Doyle in August, 'the Reds had been told unequivocally that Zubimendi wanted to leave Real Sociedad during the transfer window and was expecting to depart for a new club, prompting their pursuit of the Euro 2024 winner.'

However, he would later inform sporting director Richard Hughes of a U-turn in his thinking and subsequently stuck around in San Sebastian.

While the transfer snub was a big blow for Liverpool at the time, Ryan Gravenberch has stepped up to fill the anchor role in the Reds' midfield. Under new head coach Arne Slot the team has surged five points clear at the top of the Premier League.

According to The Athletic, despite turning down the chance to join both Liverpool and Arsenal recently 'the admiration [in Zubimendi] continues.'

Following a potential season-ending knee injury for Rodri, Manchester City have also been touted as possible suitors for Zubimendi. The City man was actually replaced by the Sociedad playmaker in the European Championship final at half-time, when Spain overcame England 2-1.