Arne Slot provides significant insight about Martin Zubimendi as the player nears a transfer to Arsenal.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has subtly praised Martin Zubimendi’s abilities as the midfielder edges closer to a move to Arsenal.

Both Liverpool and Arsenal have been linked with the Real Sociedad star, whose reputation has been steadily rising. Liverpool were interested in signing the Spaniard following his impressive cameo in the Euro 2024 final but ultimately missed out.

Mikel Arteta, however, had been tracking Zubimendi even before the tournament, and reports suggest Arsenal have secured a deal to sign the 25-year-old in the summer. Liverpool’s pursuit of Zubimendi was part of their extensive search for midfield reinforcements during the summer transfer window.

Slot has relied heavily on players like Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, who has begun to fulfill his potential. While not naming Zubimendi directly, the Liverpool boss hinted that the midfielder would have seamlessly fit into their system due to his technical attributes. Speaking to TNT Sports, Slot explained his preference for deep-lying midfielders operating centrally: “I prefer them to get the ball behind those two [opposition midfield and attack]. Therefore, these two [Liverpool centre-backs] are so important to find them behind the opposition press rather than passing wide.

“The player we were looking to bring in – which is already well-known – is very comfortable on the ball and capable of linking our defense to the attack.”

If Zubimendi does make the switch to Arsenal, the Gunners will be the ones benefiting from his talents. Arteta is keen to bolster his squad, ideally in January, but may need to wait until summer for major signings. Despite their interest, Arsenal are already well-equipped in midfield, with Martin Odegaard excelling as a playmaker and Declan Rice and Thomas Partey providing solidity behind him.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have thrived even without Zubimendi. Their only summer signing, Federico Chiesa, has made minimal impact so far, but Slot has maximized the squad he inherited from Jurgen Klopp. The Reds are leading the Premier League and Champions League

standings.