“I warned him not to join Manchester United, but he went and accepted their offer. Let’s see if his career won’t end like that of Antony and Casemiro,” Manchester City star Rodri confirmed that his £60M Spanish teammate has agreed to personal terms with Manchester United to join next week.
Rodri, the Manchester City star, recently expressed his reservations about players joining Manchester United, citing the uncertain fates of Antony and Casemiro as cautionary tales. Despite his warnings, it appears his £60 million Spanish teammate is set to join Manchester United, having agreed to personal terms with the club.
According to reports from Spain, Manchester United is preparing an initial offer of £37.8 million to acquire Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. Zubimendi has a release clause set at £50.5 million.
The Red Devils are keen on strengthening their midfield, aiming to pair the Spanish international with Kobbie Mainoo. Jim Ratcliffe has spearheaded the bid to secure Zubimendi, offering £37.8 million as a starting point. The 25-year-old midfielder’s contract with Sociedad still has three years remaining, which includes a £50.5 million release clause.
Real Sociedad, known as Txuri-Urdin, have made it clear that Zubimendi will only be allowed to leave if his release clause is fully met.
Zubimendi is highly versatile, primarily playing as a No.6 where he excels as both a defensive midfielder and a deep-lying playmaker. He is also capable of taking on the central midfield role. Last season, he played in 31 La Liga matches, contributing directly to five goals. His performances have earned him six caps for Spain, and he is currently part of the national squad competing in the European championships. Any potential transfer to Manchester United will likely take place after the tournament concludes next month.
Manchester United is in dire need of a high-caliber No.6 to fill the gap left by Casemiro, and Zubimendi appears to be a prime candidate for the role, potentially forming a formidable partnership with Mainoo.
The question remains: should Manchester United activate the £50.5 million clause to secure Martin Zubimendi?
