Los Blancos have Real Sociedad defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi on their radar as one of the possible signings to strengthen their squad next season.
With the departure of Toni Kroos last summer and the earlier departure of Casemiro to Manchester United in 2022, Real Madrid are in urgent need of rebuilding their midfield. Only Luka Modrić, who turns 40 in September, remains of the legendary midfield trio that won three consecutive Champions League titles between 2015 and 2018.
Now Los Blancos are actively looking for reinforcements, and one name stands out: Martín Zubimendi. The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder is seen as a natural successor to Kroos. Madrid considers him a playmaker in the example of lift.
Why Zubimendi suits Real Madrid
Zubimendi checks several key boxes for Real Madrid:
Zubimendi's standout performances in the UEFA European Championship further enhanced his appeal. In the final against England, he resigned after Rodri was forced off at half-time, demonstrating his composure and leadership at Berlin's Olympiastadion. Later, his decisive goal against Denmark in the Nations League qualifiers contributed to his growing reputation.
Competing interests for Zubimendi
While Zubimendi is attracted to the Premier League, his agent, Iñaki Ibáñez, has also held talks with Barcelona. Xavi specifically asked Zubimendi to strengthen Barça's midfield, but the move fell through due to the club's financial problems. Notably, Ibáñez also represents Xabi Alonso, whose links with Real Madrid and successful coaching stint in Spain's lower leagues have led to speculation about a future managerial role at the Bernabéu.
Transfer drama from the past
Zubimendi almost left Real Sociedad last summer when Liverpool showed strong interest and were willing to trigger his release clause. However, the departures of Mikel Merino to Arsenal and Robin Le Normand to Atlético Madrid forced Sociedad to keep Zubimendi and offer him better financial terms without extending his contract.
Real Madrid's lead
Real Madrid's strong relationship with Real Sociedad could work in their favor. Recent transfers between the clubs include:
Still, Madrid faces stiff competition from Premier League heavyweights such as Liverpool and Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola reportedly seeing Zubimendi as an ideal replacement for Rodri, and the Reds, revitalized under Arne Slot, look like a tasty project to part to make out of.
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