Man City transfer news: Martin Zubimendi responds to January rumours after rejecting Liverpool

The Spain international was heavily linked with a big-money transfer to Liverpool in the summer at a time when Reds boss Arne Slot was targeting the addition of a new defensive midfielder.

However, Zubimendi turned down a move to Anfield and decided to stay at boyhood club Real Sociedad, where he has made 198 appearances since and including his senior debut in 2019 and has established himself as one of the best midfielders in La Liga.

Rumours surfaced after the summer transfer window closed claiming that Zubimendi regretted turning down a move to Liverpool, but the 25-year-old has since shut down those reports.

Zubimendi has now addressed speculation over a possible mid-season transfer to Premier League champions Man City, who have recently been credited with an interest in his services.

Zubimendi addresses Man City rumours

A recent report claims that Pep Guardiola's side are interested Zubimendi, who has been identified as a January target following the long-term injury sustained by key midfielder Rodri.

Guardiola confirmed at the end of last month that Rodri will miss the rest of the 2024-25 campaign after suffering knee ligament damage in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal.

Zubimendi is expected to fill the void left behind by Rodri on international duty with Spain and is in contention to play for La Roja in Saturday's UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark.

Ahead of that match, the midfielder was asked at a press conference about rumours linking him with Man City, and he said: "There are always rumours but until now I've always thought that the best solution for me is staying at Real Sociedad.

"I've still a lot of things to give to this club, I still want to grow and develop here."

On stepping up for Spain in Rodri's absence, Zubimendi added: "I don't want to anticipate anything. The manager decides. There are two of us for that position.

"It's a shame that it's due to injury and even more so when he's a vital player for this team. An opportunity has opened up and we will have to take advantage of it."

Who are Man City's Zubimendi alternatives amid Rodri injury?

Man City have been linked with several midfielders since Rodri's injury was confirmed, including Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes, although he would reportedly prefer to stay at St James' Park.

A potential move for Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton has also been mooted, although the Citizens could face competition from Liverpool and Manchester United.

The likes of Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong, Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich and Torino's Samuele Ricci have also been tipped to make the move to the Etihad Stadium in the New Year.