Martin Zubamendi, a midfielder for Real Sociedad, is supposedly a target for Manchester United. Former Liverpool player Xabi Alonso, who had kind words for the 25-year-old, served as his prior coach.
Contrary to what dullwits on social media would claim, there is no such thing as “winning” the transfer window. The medals would not be awarded in the middle of July, even if such a thing existed.
A portion of the Liverpool supporters is anxious and pessimistic on the total lack of acquisitions made by the new sports director Richard Hughes. It won’t have happened too often in the past, but some Reds fans will be glancing jealously at Manchester United.
This summer, the Red Devils have been active in the market. They have already acquired Leny Yoro from Real Madrid and Liverpool, as well as signed Joshua Zirkzee. It won’t end there, either, as Xabi Alonso’s old teammate is reportedly another target for United.
It is Martin Zubamendi, the player in question. He just won Euro 2024, replacing injured Manchester City player Rodri at halftime in the championship game. The 25-year-old is rumored to be on United’s shopping list among players like Joao Neves of Benfica and Manuel Ugarte of Paris Saint-Germain. He reportedly has a $69 million (£53 million/€63 million) release clause.
Real Sociedad has a contract with Zubamendi that runs until 2027. According to Transfermarkt, he is worth $54 million (£42 million/€50 million). He progressed through the club’s ranks, therefore Alonso’s guidance during Real Sociedad B’s managerial tenure was advantageous to him.
Zubamendi was used by the former Liverpool midfielder 25 times, the last time being in March 2020. He made his first start for the first team three months after the initial pandemic lockdown, when football was restarted, and he hasn’t looked back.
Two years ago, Alonso spoke to The Guardian about how much he admired the player. He remarked, “Martin’s a player that all coaches would want.” “He is giving and always considers his teammates before himself.”
Alonso went on, “He has that ability to create play, to improve those around him, always offering solutions; to improve the move.” “Even before the ball reaches him, he knows what to do. He possesses the axis, the ability to organize. It was a pleasure working with him.
That’s high regard coming from a manager who won the Bundesliga. Should Liverpool defeat United to sign Zubamendi, a superior defensive midfield player, to make up for losing out on Yoro?
