Transfers
Real Madrid push for Liverpool and Man City target
Los Blancos have Real Sociedad’s defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi on their radar as one of the possible signings for next season to strengthen their squad.
With the departure of Toni Kroos last summer and the earlier exit of Casemiro to Manchester United in 2022, Real Madrid finds itself in urgent need of a midfield rebuild. Only Luka Modrić, who turns 40 in September, remains from the legendary midfield trio that won three consecutive Champions League titles between 2015 and 2018.
Now, Los Blancos are actively scouting for reinforcements, and one name stands out: Martín Zubimendi. The 25-year-old midfielder from Real Sociedad is seen as a natural successor to Kroos. Madrid views him as a playmaker in the mould of Xabi Alonso or Rodri (Manchester City) - a player capable of orchestrating the team’s game from the center of the pitch and elevating his teammates' performances.
Why Zubimendi fits Real Madrid
Zubimendi checks several key boxes for Real Madrid:
- Age: At 25 (soon to turn 26 in February), he is entering his prime.
- Cost: His €60 million release clause is reasonable for a player of his caliber, with a contract running until 2027.
- Position: He would fill a critical gap in midfield.
- Club policy: Madrid favours bringing in young Spanish talent to rejuvenate their squad.
Zubimendi’s standout performances in the UEFA European Championship further solidified his appeal. In the final against England, he stepped up after Rodri was forced off at halftime, showcasing his composure and leadership at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Later, his decisive goal against Denmark in the Nations League qualifiers added to his growing reputation.
Competing interests for Zubimendi
While Zubimendi is drawn to the Premier League, his agent, Iñaki Ibáñez, has also held discussions with Barcelona. Xavi specifically requested Zubimendi to bolster Barça’s midfield, but the move fell through due to the club’s financial struggles. Notably, Ibáñez also represents Xabi Alonso, whose ties to Real Madrid and successful coaching stint in Spain’s lower leagues have led to speculation about a future managerial role at the Bernabéu.
Past transfer drama
Zubimendi nearly left Real Sociedad last summer when Liverpool expressed strong interest and was prepared to trigger his release clause. However, the departures of Mikel Merino to Arsenal and Robin Le Normand to Atlético Madrid forced Sociedad to retain Zubimendi, offering him improved financial terms without extending his contract.
Real Madrid’s edge
Real Madrid’s strong relationship with Real Sociedad could work in their favor. Recent transfers between the clubs include:
- Asier Illarramendi (2013) and Álvaro Odriozola (2018) moving to Madrid.
- Loan stints for Martin Ødegaard and Takefusa Kubo, the latter ultimately sold to Sociedad in 2024.
Still, Madrid faces stiff competition from Premier League heavyweights like Liverpool and Manchester City, where Pep Guardiola reportedly sees Zubimendi as an ideal replacement for Rodri, and The Reds, revitalised under Arne Slot, looking like a tasty project to be part of.
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