Aheed Abrar
Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur to rival Manchester United for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi
Spanish giants Barcelona and Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur are set to rival Manchester United for the signing of Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi.
Several clubs will be interested in acquiring his services in the upcoming transfer window. Last summer, teams looking to sign the Spain international were told to pay his €60 million release clause.
However, no side ended up capturing the 24-year-old’s signature. He was not fussing about a move, either. The midfielder signed a new five-year contract recently, but his release clause remains the same.
Speaking to the CaughtOffside (h/t Manchester Evening News), CBS Sports’ Ben Jacobs revealed that the Balugrana liked Zubimendi. The Red Devils and Spurs were also sounded out as potential suitors.
“Barcelona coach Xavi also admires Zubimendi, though it remains to be seen if the finances are workable to proceed. Keep an eye on Tottenham and Manchester United as well.”
Barcelona currently have Sergio Busquets as their number six. However, the Camp Nou side’s captain is in the final years of his career. However, Xavi has the likes of Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi and Frank Kessie to count on as well.
On the other hand, Tottenham have a number of defensive-minded midfielders at their disposal. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has been ever-present in Antonio Conte’s team. Spurs also signed Yves Bissouma recently and can also call upon Oliver Skipp.
As for United, we signed Casemiro in the summer of 2022. The Brazil international has quickly become one of the most important players for the Old Trafford side.
Along with Christian Eriksen, the former Real Madrid star has formed a brilliant partnership in the Red Devils’ engine room. However, they will both turn 31 this month.
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Also, in the absence of Casemiro, Erik ten Hag does not have many natural options on the bench to replace the Brazilian. Therefore, will Zubimendi become the 30-year-old’s understudy at United? Only time will tell.
