MANCHESTER CITY are planning a £50.3million January swoop for Martin Zubimendi — six months after he turned his back on Liverpool.

The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder was on Anfield’s summer hitlist and was close to sealing a deal before a U-turn meant he stayed put.

Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a transfer target for Man City in January

Spain’s Euros winner also insisted last month he wanted to remain at boyhood club Sociedad, saying: “The best solution is staying.

“I want to grow and develop here.”

But sources insist Zubimendi has had a change of heart and is keen to play in the Premier League after all.

And that has put City on high alert.

Their failure to cope with the long-term absence of crocked Ballon d’Or winner Rodri continued with last night’s 2-1 defeat at Brighton — their fourth loss in a row.

And Zubimendi — who came on for Rodri at half-time in Spain’s 2-1 Euros final win over England — would be an ideal replacement.

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

The pair have played together for their nation, giving City the potential of a mouthwatering defensive midfield partnership when Rodri returns.

Despite manager Pep Guardiola’s apparent reluctance to make any significant signings in the January transfer window, Zubimendi’s contract’s release clause would not be an issue.

City’s poor performance and injury load may call for a reassessment since Guardiola is hesitant to put too much strain on his younger players.

Persistent uncertainty over the Spaniard’s personal future might be one obstacle.

He has yet to make a firm choice on what he will do after the summer.