Liverpool remain locked in talks to make Martin Zubimendi their first signing of the Arne Slot era, but if reports are to be believed, the midfielder previously rebuffed approaches from Arsenal and a host of other European clubs. Zubimendi is leaning towards accepting the Reds’ proposal if they don’t face any issues activating his £51m release clause and it remains to be seen if a move for the midfielder comes to fruition. The Gunners, for their part, are also interested in signing a Real Sociedad player, with Mikel Merino tipped to move to Arsenal before the transfer deadline. Merino would ad…