Liverpool have received a huge boost in their pursuit of a dream January signing after it emerged the player's situation had changed.
In Arne Slot's first transfer window after replacing Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool made just the one signing - paying £12.5 million for Juventus and Italy winger Federico Chiesa, who has managed just three appearances in all competitions.
The lack of additions hasn't affected the Reds, who are eight points clear at the top of the Premier League after 12 games.
But fresh reports claim they could be going back in for their top target in an attempt to strengthen while they are top. In the summer Liverpool identified Spain and Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi as a priority signing and were prepared to pay his €60 million (£51 million) release clause.
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Although he gave his word over the transfer, the Euro 2024 winner elected to stay with La Real, his boyhood club who he joined when he was 12.
However, Spanish outlet TDF say that Zubimendi is regretting his decision to remain loyal with Sociedad. The report claims Zubimendi "aims to leave in January" and is "counting the weeks until he makes the jump to the Premier League".
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had earlier reported that he expected Liverpool to go back in for Zubimendi and it appears to be the case despite the impressive performances of Ryan Gravenberch in a new sitting midfield role.
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Arsenal and Manchester City are also known admirers and could rival Liverpool, though the Anfield club are confident they will be successful in securing his signature.
After staying in San Sebastian, it was reported that Zubimendi would be rewarded with a new contract with Real Sociedad but he received no such offer and there is belief that the Basque club would be willing to entertain offloading him.
It's said Liverpool would be prepared to make him one of their highest-paid players.
Speaking to the Anfield Agenda YouTube channel in September, journalist David Lynch explained why Zubimendi is still very much a target.
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"I still think Liverpool will want a number 6 - they’ll want to swap out Endo for someone who fits their profile.
“Liverpool have a very narrow list of targets - and we know Zubimendi ticks so many boxes for them.
"Potentially in January it could be reignited. Maybe one to keep an eye on."
Josh Lawless