Leading sources say that Liverpool is trying to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi as their high-profile No. 6 player this summer.

A story from David Ornstein in The Athletic on Tuesday said that Liverpool had found their defensive midfield target and were “moving forward” with a deal.

Zubimendi, a 25-year-old player from Real Sociedad, was that player. He came off the bench during Spain’s win over England in the Euro 2024 final.

There were several news stories about the story. One from the Times by Paul Joyce said that they are “considering” a move for the playmaker.

It is thought that Zubimendi’s Real Sociedad deal has a buyout clause worth €60 million (£51.5m). This means that the club already knows how much they are likely to pay.

This is more news. Ornstein wrote for The Athletic that Liverpool would have to pay the full amount and Sociedad are “not willing to negotiate a fee below that figure.”

“Liverpool would also have to persuade Zubimendi to leave, which many interested clubs from the Premier League and other places have not been able to do thus far,” he says.

Going by how Liverpool handles their trade business, it’s likely that things are further along than they seem at this point.

If he joined, Wataru Endo might be able to leave Anfield after a year. Marseille made an offer of £11.8 million earlier this summer, but it was turned down, but it was said that he could be sold for the right price.

Zubimendi was a smart, technically sound player who liked playing at the base of the middle for Real Sociedad B under Xabi Alonso.

In 2022, Alonso told the Guardian, “Martin is a player that every coach would want.”

“He’s kind, and he always puts his teammates before himself.” He can start a game, help those around him get better, and always offer ideas to make the move better.

It’s clear to him what to do next before the ball gets to him. He is able to arrange things, the axis. It was great to work with him.