Man City hatch £30m transfer plan to sign Rodri replacement – and it's great news for Liverpool

Liverpool have been given a boost to their hopes of finally signing Martin Zubimendi. The Real Sociedad maestro was heavily linked with a move to Anfield during the summer transfer window as Arne Slot looked to bolster his midfield, but a switch failed to materialise.

The Echo understands that Liverpool had been told unequivocally that Zubimendi wanted to leave the La Liga outfit, prompting their pursuit. But, after being put under pressure to not leave by his boyhood club, he snubbed the Reds and remained in the Basque country.

The Spain international later informed Richard Hughes of his decision to stay at Real Sociedad. With that being said, though, it's believed that Zubimendi, who sees his contract expire in June 2027, still had a release clause in his deal worth €60m (£51.7m) – a sum that Liverpool were prepared to pay.

READ MORE: Liverpool sent clear Jamal Musiala transfer message after 'stepping up interest'

READ MORE: Chris Rigg has already told Liverpool what he wants to hear amid summer transfer talk

Following confirmation that Rodri suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Arsenal last weekend, the Reds target was mooted by many as a potential replacement. Zubimendi replaced the Manchester City ace at half-time of the Euro 2024 final in the summer, taking control of the tie with ease.

However, according to The Guardian, Pep Guardiola has identified somebody else to replace Rodri. The report states that the Premier League champions are weighing up a move for Samuele Ricci.

The 23-year-old midfielder, who sees his contract expire in June 2026, has featured five times for Torino in the Serie A this season, helping the Italian outfit keep two clean sheets. Playing a key role in Paolo Vanoli's side, Ricci has helped Il Toro climb to top of the table.

The Guardian states that the Italy international could be available for £30m, but it's said that Torino would be reluctant to sell mid-season – especially if they can maintain their excellent form and challenge for Champions League qualification.

While Manchester City have set their sights on Ricci, Zubimendi remains a strong alternative. Speaking to reporters after the Euro 2024 final, Luis De la Fuente heaped the Liverpool target with praise.

"Zubimendi is a player with very similar qualities to Rodrigo and we wanted to keep that same structure," said the Spain boss. "It’s true that it enabled us with his fresh legs to bring the ball out more, with more individual running with the ball to open things up and create overloads when driving forward."