Exclusive: Liverpool make move to sign Adrien Rabiot after Zubimendi twist
Liverpool have registered their interest in Adrien Rabiot in case their move for Martin Zubimendi collapses, sources have told Football Insider.
The Premier League giants are in talks with Real Sociedad as they work on a deal to bring Zubimendi to Anfield, but have been told they will need to pay his £51.7million release clause in full.
There is a growing expectation that the deal to sign the Spain international will be agreed, but Liverpool are exploring alternatives in case it falls through.
Rabiot, a free agent after leaving Juventus earlier this summer, has emerged as one of the names on their list and preliminary discussions have been held.
At 29 years old, he would represent another proven option although he is four years older than 25-year-old Zubimendi.
Liverpool demonstrated with their capture of Wataru Endo late in last summer's window that they are willing to sign more experienced players if they believe they represent good market value.
Liverpool line up Martin Zubimendi alternatives after new talks
Zubimendi has been at Real Sociedad for his entire career, having come through the academy in San Sebastian, and his club are sticking to their demands over his exit.
A £51.7million release clause inserted into his contract remains a key negotiating point, and has already put off other suitors in this transfer window.
Football Insider revealed earlier this summer that Arsenal were tracking a deal to sign the Spaniard, but their interest was never formalised.
Talks with Liverpool are continuing to progress and there is a growing confidence that a deal can be reached before the transfer deadline on 31st August.
Rabiot left Juventus earlier this summer after five years at the club, and played a key part in Didier Deschamps' France squad at Euro 2024.
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