Liverpool have secret weapon that could help them sign their own Rodri

Liverpool could have a major advantage in negotiations if they decide to move for one of the most talented young midfielders in Europe.

Arne Slot's side have made a quiet start to the summer transfer window, with the club yet to make a senior signing despite several first-team players departing the club at the end of their contracts last month.

Thiago Alcantara, Joel Matip and Adrian all left to become free agents but Liverpool are yet to sign any replacements.

The Athletic's David Ornstein provided an update on the club's transfer business on Tuesday, reporting that the Reds have "identified a target" in their problem position in defensive midfield.

With the future of Wataru Endo uncertain and the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch better deployed further upfield, Liverpool look likely to sign a new No 6 this summer.

According to Ornstein, the signing is set to be a player from "outside of the Premier League" – ruling out a move for Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton.

One name linked with Liverpool is Spain international Martin Zubimendi, who currently plays his club football for Real Sociedad.

Arsenal were strongly linked with the Spaniard last summer, with Barcelona and Manchester United also reportedly interested in the player – who has been compared to both Manchester City midfielder Rodri and Barca legend Sergio Busquets.

Liverpool could have a potential advantage in any future negotiations for Zubimendi, with the club's new sporting director Richard Hughes rumoured to have a good relationship with the player's agent, Inaki Ibanez.

In his previous role as Bournemouth technical director, Hughes helped to convince another client of Ibanez – head coach Andoni Iraola – to join the Cherries.

Meanwhile, former Liverpool star and current Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is also reported to be represented by Ibanez, strengthening the links with the Anfield club.

Martin Zubimendi has been linked with Liverpool (Image: Getty)

Liverpool fans have reacted to the rumours of a move for Zubimendi, with some comparing the Spanish midfielder to Manchester City star Rodri.

"In a perfect world, we need another CDM that is on his way to Rodri/Rice levels, while using Endo as backup. Zubimendi is the one," posted one fan on X.

While another wrote: "In a perfect world Liverpool sign Zubimendi and play him in a double pivot with Mac. The technicality would be crazy."

Time will tell if Zubimendi is indeed Liverpool's reported midfield target, with little transfer information coming out of the club at present.