Liverpool are reportedly set to delay their midfielder search after failing in their bid to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Liverpool have reportedly decided to delay their pursuit of a new midfielder until the January transfer window.
The Reds overhauled their midfield last summer, recruiting Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo.
Despite making those additions in 2023, Liverpool have been looking to sign a number six for Arne Slot‘s first season in charge.
Liverpool identified Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as a top target, and they appeared to be on course to prise him away from La Liga.
However, the Euro 2024 international decided to turn down a move to Anfield in favour of staying with his boyhood club.
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Liverpool make decision on midfielder search
Having failed to land Zubimendi, Liverpool have been linked with alternative targets, including Atalanta BC’s Teun Koopmeiners.
A recent report also claimed that the Reds have been offered the chance to sign Al-Arabi midfielder Marco Verratti.
However, according to Football Insider, Liverpool are set to delay their search for a new top midfielder until the January transfer window.
Liverpool’s new recruitment team, including sporting director Richard Hughes, are wary of making a panic buy after being left disappointed in their pursuit of Zubimendi.
As a result, the Reds are set to take their time to assess potential targets before they push ahead with signing a new midfielder.
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Are Liverpool right to delay midfielder search?
While Liverpool are keen to recruit a new number six, there is little point in signing someone they are not fully convinced by.
Gravenberch demonstrated that he can operate in the deeper midfield role with a strong performance in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Ipswich Town.
Slot also has the option to use Mac Allister or Endo as a holding midfielder, and while they may not be long-term solutions in that role, they could help Liverpool negotiate their way to the January window.
In regards to matters on the pitch, Liverpool will attempt to claim a second straight win when they face Brentford at Anfield on Saturday.