While Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation for Arne Slot this season, Liverpool could do with another option in the number six position to add some more strength in depth.
Having attempted to sign Martin Zubimendi in the summer, with the player ultimately opting against leaving his boyhood club, Real Sociedad, it is a role that the Reds have identified as a possible place to find an upgrade. Since Fabinho declined and then departed, it has been an area of need, with Aurelien Tchouameni and others considered in the past.
With few top-class options out there for defensive midfield, and Liverpool's admiration for Zubimendi remaining, it would be possible for the player to change his mind. And only last week, The Athletic reported that the player could be open to leaving.
Zubimendi has a $63m (£50m/€60m) release clause but he would supposedly be likelier to move in the summer window rather than next month, seeing out the rest of the season where he is. Even if he was open to leaving in January, though, this weekend, he picked up an injury which could have an impact.
"Zubimendi and Aihen Munoz asked me to change them, and it seems serious," Real Sociedad boss Imanol Alguacil said after his side beat Leganes 3-0 (via Mundo Deportivo). "Sergio Gomez's case is different. He suffered a blow to the quadriceps in a clash with a rival player, but I preferred to change him, we will see how he recovers."
Coming off in the 50th minute against Leganes, Zubimendi had a back issue. Manchester City has also taken a look at him as a possible replacement for the injured Rodri, while Arsenal, according to The Independent, could move for him too.
Liverpool.com says: If there is a deal to be done for Zubimendi, he looks like the only option that the Reds like enough to sign. Improving on Wataru Endo and giving Gravenberch some help would make loads of sense but any injury heading into the winter transfer window could put an end to those rumors before they ramp up again just a few weeks before January.