Zubimendi was heavily linked with Liverpool last summer, but he ended up staying at Real Sociedad.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Pundit and former Liverpool defender, Jamie Carragher, has said Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta stole former Real Sociedad midfielder, Martin Zubimendi from the Reds.
He made his feelings known recently while featuring on ‘Stick to Football’ podcast.
Zubimendi was heavily linked with a transfer to Liverpool last summer, but ended up staying in his former club for another season.
However, this year, the Spanish international opted to sign for north London club, Arsenal.
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Reacting to the saga, Carragher claimed Arteta used his Basque roots to his advantage in the pursuit of Zubimendi.
He added that the Spanish tactician must have assured the midfielder that he was going to sign him after completing Mikel Merino’s deal.
Speaking during the programme, the Liverpool legend said: “I’m convinced now that Mikel Arteta definitely stole him from Liverpool.
“He had agreed to come to Liverpool. He said he was coming – and at the last minute he said, ‘I don’t want to come. I’ll have another year at Sociedad.’
“Mikel Arteta’s from the Basque area. There’s no doubt he’s been into him and said, ‘We’re signing Merino this season, Arsenal will come for you next season’.”
