According to Spanish outlet AS, Manchester United are willing to trigger €60 million release clause for the La Real midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
The Red Devils upgraded their midfield in the last transfer window with the signing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen. The experienced duo is now a permanent fixture in the starting eleven under Ten Hag. But United remains in the market for a midfield reinforcement.
Manchester United likely to trigger €60M release clause for Martin Zubimendi
The Red Devils strengthened their midfield by signing Casemiro and Christian Eriksen but now they have joined Barcelona in the race for Zubimendi, who has an exit clause of €60M in his contract.
While Zubimendi will bring different qualities and can fit in next to Casemiro. So the interest from United is understandable. But they will have to fight off strong competition from Barcelona to sign the Spanish midfielder.
Internal sources confirmed that United have watched the Spaniard closely during their recent European outings against Real Sociedad.
A potential successor to Sergio Busquets
The Catalan club sees the 23-year-old as a potential successor to Sergio Busquets.
Zubimendi proved his mettle against Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League when Real Sociedad won their group and automatically advanced to the round of 16. The La Real midfielder dictates the tempo from deep and is very comfortable in recycling possession.
He can play in the defensive and central midfield roles too. This season, he has averaged nearly two tackles and one interception per game. He has also drawn attention for his ability to win aerial duels on a regular basis. He has a 75 percent success rate.
It is clear that the Catalan giants can’t buy Zubimendi in January due to spending restrictions in La Liga, and the Spaniard wants to move to Barcelona after extending his contract with Real Sociedad.
The triggering of Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause, takes the decision on his future out of Real Sociedad’s hands. However, it is unclear if the Spanish midfielder is open to a move to Manchester United after deciding not to join Barcelona.
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