Liverpool transfer news: Reds identify La Liga midfielder as 'top target' for summer window

Liverpool have reportedly identified Athletic Bilbao midfielder Mikel Jauregizar as a top target for the summer transfer window.

The Reds were unable to recruit a defensive midfielder last summer after failing in their bid to land Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi.

Ryan Gravenberch has since established himself as a holding midfield option, starting all 34 of his Premier League appearances this season.

However, the Premier League champions are still keen to strengthen Arne Slot's squad with a new number six option ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

Liverpool will not be able to renew their interest in Zubimendi, who has agreed to join Arsenal in the summer transfer window.

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Liverpool identify Jauregizar as top target

It appears that Liverpool have already found a viable alternative to Zubimendi at Real Sociedad's Basque rivals Athletic Bilbao.

According to Anfield Watch, the Reds have placed Athletic's Jauregizar at the 'top of the list' of potential defensive midfielder targets.

The report claims that Liverpool scouts have been impressed by Jauregizar's performances for Los Leones this season.

There is a suggestion that the 21-year-old is open to the move as he feels he is ready to take the next steps in his career.

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Why are Liverpool keen on Jauregizar?

Jauregizar, who is under contract until June 2027, has enjoyed a breakthrough season at Athletic this season, having established himself as a key part of Ernesto Valverde's side.

The midfielder has made 44 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and three assists, including a stunning strike in Thursday's Europa League semi-final defeat to Manchester United.

While he is comfortable on the ball, Jauregizar is a combative midfielder out of possession, demonstrated by the fact that he is in the top 10 for tackles and dribblers tackled in La Liga this season, as per FBref.

Jauregizar's performances for Athletic have earned him the chance to make three appearances for Spain's Under-21 side.