MANCHESTER CITY are planning a £50.3million January investment for Martin Zubimendi – six months after turning his back on Liverpool.

The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder was on Anfield’s list of summer targets and was close to sealing a deal before a U-turn forced him to stay put.

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Spain euros The winner also insisted last month on his wish to stay at boyhood club Sociedad, saying: “The best solution is to stay.

“I want to grow and develop here.”

But sources insist Zubimendi has changed his mind and wants to play in the Premier League after all.

And that put City on alert.

Their inability to cope with the Ballon d’Or winner’s prolonged absence Rodri continued with last night’s 2-1 defeat at Brighton – their fourth defeat in a row.

And Zubimendi – who replaced Rodri at half-time in Spain’s 2-1 victory in the Euro final. England – would be an ideal replacement.

Rodri, 28, is out for the season after rupturing his ACL in September’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal.

The pair played together for their country, giving City the potential for an enticing defensive midfield partnership when Rodri returns.

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The release clause in Zubimendi’s contract would not pose a problem, even if the manager Pep Guardiola Initially, he was not willing to make any major moves in the January market.

City’s accumulation of injuries and dismal form could signal fresh thinking, as Guardiola is also reluctant to put too much pressure on his young players.

A potential stumbling block could be continued uncertainty over the Spaniard’s future.

There is still no sign of a final decision on his plans beyond the summer.