How could Martin Zubimendi join Liverpool in a €100 million transfer?

Liverpool may still have hopes that Martin Zubimendi would reconsider his decision to reject a move to Anfield this summer. The defensive midfielder is Liverpool's top target for his position, and sources at the Premier League club felt they had secured a deal until finding that the Real Sociedad player would remain in La Liga.

Liverpool are yet to make a significant addition this summer and will begin their Premier League campaign against Ipswich on Saturday. At this point, it looks doubtful that Liverpool would try to recruit someone other than Martin Zubimendi, who fits the club's chosen profile for the number six position in Slot's squad.

Here's how Martin Zubimendi could land at Liverpool

A strong start with defeat over Manchester United

Under Jurgen Klopp Liverpool was a strong team but as per reports this time Liverpool won’t be strong. Zubimendi's choice to remain in Spain may have been influenced by Liverpool's potential for dominance in the Premier League. Ahead of the new season, a great start to the Premier League campaign may convince the 25-year-old to go later in the transfer window. On September 1 Manchester United will face Liverpool this match will be a main task for new manager Arne Slot. Also, the game will play after the transfer window is over. If Liverpool wins this game, it will convince Zubimendi to sign with the club in the winter transfer window.

A 100 million signing

Liverpool won't be the same team that Jurgen Klopp built. When Zubimendi decided to stay in Spain, he may have taken into consideration how competitive Liverpool may be at the top of the Premier League. Liverpool could be able to insist that Zubimendi be the last piece in the puzzle if agreements for both are completed, which could cost at least £100 million in total. It will also be crucial to retain significant players like Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah.

A big contract offers

A better contract offer might be the easiest way to reach a consensus. Although it's uncertain exactly what Liverpool was giving Zubimendi, it was enough. If he gets the highest salary at Liverpool, he may be convinced to sign. 

If Real Sociedad failed to give big deal

According to reports, Real Sociedad offered Zubimendi a big new deal if he turned down Liverpool. If these discussions fail to produce a viable proposal, Zubimendi may reconsider his decision to move to the Premier League.

Won’t repeat the same mistake

After failing to get Virgil van Dijk in the summer of 2017, Liverpool was able to finally sign Klopp's top target in January of the following year. Now that they had Zubimendi, the Reds could replicate that tactic. Keeping in touch with Zubimendi over the next three months and showing patience may pay off come the winter window.