Manchester United have joined the race to rope in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
As per Mundo Deportivo, Manchester United are gearing up for a potential transfer of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. The Spanish midfielder has been a key player for the Basque outfit.
Manchester United recently invested in two midfield maestros Christian Eriksen and Casemiro. And the two midfielders have played pivotal roles in their recent revival.
Despite these two stamping their authorities with ease, Erik ten Hag wants to have adequate cover at his disposal and will be hunting a new central midfielder to bolster his ranks.
Fred could leave Manchester United next summer, while Scott McTominay seems to be lacking that final product needed to excel in the Premier League. Manchester United are not expected to move for a midfielder in January, but they will be very keen to reshape their stock next summer.
Zubimendi only signed a extension last month, and the player will stay at the club until 2027, should he honour his current contract at the club. The new deal also has a €60 million release clause, and an interested party should be able to retrieve his service by paying the amount in full.
Barcelona are pushing for his signature, as Xavi Hernandez wants the youngster to be Sergio Busquets’s long-time successor. But affording his price could be a problem for the Spanish giants, as they are currently undergoing financial problems.
Zubimendi showcased his skills against Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League as Real Sociedad topped the group and gained an automatic entry to the Round of 16.
The Spanish midfielder dictates the tempo from the deep and is very comfortable in recycling possession. Manchester United might not have an additional requirement in January. But with fixtures piling up in the latter part of the year, an additional pair of legs would be good.
Except for Barcelona, the Red Devils do not seem to have any other competitors in their line. Given Casemiro’s availability, Manchester United might not opt to prioritise a defensive midfielder and could go for another creative midfielder in the next transfer window.
