Aheed Abrar
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag ‘huge admirer’ of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is a ‘huge admirer’ of Real Sociedad star and Spain international Martin Zubimendi, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo (h/t Express).
The Red Devils are interested in the 23-year-old’s signature. But the midfielder has a £53 million release clause in his current contract that runs until 2027. The Old Trafford side are unlikely to afford the youngster in January.
Premier League rivals Chelsea are also eyeing Zubimendi. The Blues midfield is ageing, with the likes of N’Golo Kante and Jorginho in their 30s.
La Liga giants Barcelona are also in the race for the 23-year-old. Xavi sees the midfielder as the perfect replacement for veteran Sergio Busquets. However, the Blaugrana also boast Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Gavi in the middle of the park.
Zubimendi has made his way through the youth ranks at La Real. The Spaniard established himself in the San Sebastian outfit’s first team in the 2020/21 campaign. Since then, the youngster has been an ever-present in the White and Blues’ starting lineup.
United fans have seen first-hand what the 23-year-old is capable of. He was impressive in the Europa League group stages as the Reale Arena side took on the Red Devils home and away.
The Old Trafford side signed Casemiro from Real Madrid in the recent transfer window. The 30-year-old has been brilliant in the defensive midfield position for the Manchester-based club under Erik ten Hag.
The Brazil international has put in several man-of-the-match performances already this season. However, the likes of Scott McTominay and Fred are backing up the new signing.
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Thus, we will evidently need a successor for Casemiro in a few years’ time. Zubimendi has shown great potential. Hopefully, we will be able to entice him to sign for us.
