Real Sociedad demand Martin Zubimendi pay HIS OWN release clause to join Liverpool amid reports of strict deadline

Real Sociedad have reportedly told Martin Zubimendi that he will have to pay his own release clause if he wants to leave the club, a desperate tactic to stop him from joining Liverpool.

There is strong speculation that Zubimendi could move to Anfield this summer after impressive performances for Spain at Euro 2024.

He played several times during the tournament and came on as a substitute in the final against England to help his team to a 2-1 victory in Berlin.

Liverpool are considering activating a €60 million (£51 million) release clause in his contract with Sociedad, with Arne Slot reportedly a big fan of the 25-year-old midfielder.

However, the Spanish club do not want to lose one of their best players and have tried to persuade him to reject a move to the Premier League.

Earlier this month, the Daily Mail claimed Sociedad convinced him to stay with a presentation about the scenery, food and weather in San Sebastian.

And they have now brutally increased the pressure on the midfielder.

The Times claims that Sociedad told him he would have to activate his own release clause if he wanted to leave his boyhood club.

The procedure would mean that Zubimendi would pay the transfer fee himself at La Liga’s offices in Madrid if Liverpool invoke the clause in his contract.

Sociedad are reportedly trying hard to persuade the midfielder to stay, as the player has not yet decided on a move to England.

According to reports in Spain, Liverpool have given Zubimendi a deadline of Wednesday to make a final decision, otherwise they will focus on other targets for the No.6 position.

Liverpool are planning a transfer of Martin Zubimendi (Image: Getty)

However, there are conflicting reports about the alleged date. The Times claims that nothing is set in stone yet.

“While it is understandable that no such ultimatum has been issued by the Anfield management, there is a consensus among the players and Liverpool that the current situation cannot continue indefinitely,” the report said.

Sociedad’s ruthless approach is reflected in the fact that the club already sold defender Robin Le Normand to Atletico Madrid earlier this week and midfielder Mikel Merino is also a target for Arsenal.

It remains to be seen whether Zubimendi will take the step and pay his own release clause, but further developments are expected in the coming days.