Man United are ‘willing to pay Martin Zubimendi’s £51.4million release’

Manchester United are willing to pay Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi’s release clause, according to reports.

The Red Devils bolstered their midfield options last summer with the signings of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro.

But manager Erik ten Hag is interested in signing more players for the position and Zubimendi is the latest target, according to Spanish outlet AS.

Manchester United would be interested in Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi

The 23-year-old has a £51.4m release clause that United are willing to activate, and Barcelona are also interested in the player.

Zubimendi has impressed at Sociedad since breaking into the first team in the 2019-20 season from the club’s youth system.

He can play as a defensive midfielder, a position he usually occupies in the Spanish team, as well as a more advanced role.

The Spain international (right) has a release clause of £51.4m, his contract expires in 2025

Zubimendi has averaged nearly two tackles and one interception per game so far this season, impressing with his ability to win passing duels.

United got to see Zubimendi, whose contract expires in 2025, twice this season when he faced Sociedad twice in the Europa League group stage.

With Fred’s contract due to expire in the summer, United are likely to be looking in the market for another midfielder to challenge first-choice options Eriksen and Casemiro.

Barcelona also bets on Zubimendi as a veteran replacement for Sergio Busquets

Barcelona are also said to be interested in Zubimendi as a replacement for veteran Sergio Busquets, whose contract expires in the summer.

But the Catalan club’s spending is bound to be limited as they continue to struggle financially despite their heavy spending in the latest transfer window.

As well as strengthening their midfield, United are said to be prioritizing attackers, with PSV and Netherlands star Cody Gakpo heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford.