8 stars who rejected Liverpool like Arsenal-bound Martin Zubimendi and what happened to them
8 stars who rejected Liverpool like Arsenal-bound Martin Zubimendi and what happened to them
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For many footballers worldwide, a move to Liverpool would be the ultimate dream - but that doesn't mean the Reds haven't faced their fair share of rejection. Arne Slot experienced this first-hand last summer when a £51million deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi collapsed at the 11th hour. Much to Liverpool's chagrin, Zubimendi decided to remain with his childhood club, but it appears Arsenal have now succeeded in convincing him.
The 25-year-old may regret his decision to turn down Liverpool, especially in light of La Real's challenging campaign. However, he'll have the chance to prove he was right against the Reds next season should he follow through and accept a move to north London.
With this in mind, the Liverpool Echo has compiled a list of high-profile footballers who reportedly declined a move to Anfield. And we'll explore where they ended up, what unfolded next, and crucially, whether or not they made the right decision. Jude Bellingham was widely expected to join Liverpool for much of 2022. The England sensation was spotted getting cosy with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson at the 2022 World Cup and was identified as the Reds' top transfer target prior to him leaving Borussia Dortmund the following summer.
However, whether it was Dortmund's steep asking price or the irresistible charm of playing for Real Madrid, Liverpool withdrew from the race just weeks before the midfielder's £87m (potentially rising to £112m) move to the Bernabeu. The Reds could only watch with envy as Bellingham made an immediate impact at Madrid, scoring a staggering 14 goals in his first 15 matches.
