Premier League champions Manchester City are reportedly interested in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
According to Fichajes, Premier League giants Manchester City are interested in Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi and are keeping a close eye on his progress.
The 23-year-old came through the ranks at the Anoeta and is today a first team regular for Imanol Alguacil’s side. He has made 107 appearances for the club across all competitions so far, scoring and assisting four goals apiece.
A defensive midfielder, Zubimendi is a full international for the Spanish national side. An excellent technician, he is adept at winning back the ball and can stop opposition attacks in its tracks. Zubimendi is also a force to be reckoned with in the air and is capable of winning aerial balls at a canter.
Still just 23, he is far from the finished product. Moving to a club such as Manchester City to play under Pep Guardiola could be just what he needs to take his career to the next level. More so, the Spaniard’s ability to organise the midfield and his trademark passing makes him the ideal template for Guardiola’s system.
Zubimendi recently renewed his contract at the Spanish side until 2027. However, he has a buyout of around €60 million, a fee that is not unaffordable for Manchester City. The Premier League champions have never shied away from spending when needed and the 23-year-old could be the next player on that list.
Guardiola and co. are keen to refresh their midfield roster next summer. Ilkay Gundagon could leave, while Kalvin Phillips has not really gotten a chance to impress. Rodri remains the club’s go-to man in central midfield, and the prospect of having an all Spanish partnership with Zubimendi could be beneficial for all parties.
Guardiola has often deployed a reliable defensive midfielder or two in his system to give his side the foundation needed to transition from defence to attack. Sergio Busquets fulfilled that role at Barcelona, while Xabi Alonso and Javi Martinez did the same at Bayern Munich.
With Fernandinho no more at the Etihad, Rodri has stepped up well to the plate. Having more options will not hurt, and Zubimendi fits the bill perfectly. Landing the 23-year-old will certainly secure Manchester City’s future in the position for years to come.
