The football transfer world is buzzing with news of one of Europe’s hottest midfield talents, Martin Zubimendi, and his potential move away from Real Sociedad. For clubs like Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Real Madrid, the Spain international’s readiness to leave his boyhood club presents a major opportunity to bolster their midfield in the upcoming transfer windows.
Martin Zubimendi: The Midfield Star with Big Potential
Zubimendi, a product of Real Sociedad’s youth academy, has emerged as one of the most highly sought-after players in Europe over the past few seasons. The 25-year-old has cemented his place as a key figure in La Real’s midfield, impressing with his mature and intelligent style of play. Whether in a holding role or driving the team forward, his versatility and composure on the ball have made him a standout performer in Spain’s top division.
His rise has not gone unnoticed, with several of Europe’s top clubs keeping a close eye on his development. For a player of his caliber, it is no surprise that the likes of Barcelona, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City are all linked with his services. But it is not just his footballing ability that has caught the eye it is his potential as a long-term solution for some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
The Summer of 2024: A New Chapter for Zubimendi?
Despite being the subject of intense speculation last summer, Zubimendi ultimately chose to remain at Real Sociedad. In fact, the midfielder rejected a potential move to Liverpool in the final days of the transfer window, despite the Reds triggering his €60 million (£50 million) buyout clause.
Zubimendi cited the need to continue his development at Real Sociedad as the primary reason for his decision. He had come to the conclusion that staying at his boyhood club for another season would allow him to mature further as a player, and that a move at that time would be premature.
However, according to Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, Zubimendi’s stance has changed significantly. The midfielder is now reportedly open to a move in the near future. Balague recently revealed that the player is “ready to go,” with a transfer no longer being something Zubimendi is hesitant about. His change in attitude is a huge boost to the clubs that have been monitoring his situation.
Premier League Giants in the Hunt
Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool have all been linked with Zubimendi for several months now, and with the midfielder ready to consider offers, they will be in pole position to secure his services. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these clubs might offer Zubimendi in the coming months.
Arsenal: A Future Replacement for Thomas Partey?
Arsenal’s interest in Zubimendi has been widely reported, and it’s easy to see why. The Gunners have enjoyed a successful period under Mikel Arteta, with their young and dynamic midfield emerging as one of their strongest areas. However, with Thomas Partey’s future at the club uncertain, Zubimendi could be seen as the ideal long-term replacement for the Ghanaian international.
Partey’s contract runs out in the summer, and with his fitness and consistency having been questioned in recent seasons, Arsenal may be in the market for a player of Zubimendi’s profile. The Spaniard’s ability to control the tempo of the game, break up opposition attacks, and his vision for a forward pass make him an ideal fit for Arteta’s midfield.
Manchester City: The Perfect Rodri Replacement?
Manchester City’s need for a central midfielder is more pressing than Arsenal’s. Pep Guardiola’s squad has been dealing with injury problems in the middle of the park, especially in the defensive midfield position. Rodri has been a key player for City, but with the Spaniard aging and dealing with occasional fitness issues, the club is keen to find a natural successor.
Zubimendi could be the perfect replacement. Not only is he highly regarded for his passing range and defensive prowess, but he is also a natural fit for City’s high-pressing, possession-based system. Furthermore, his ability to seamlessly step in for Rodri at international level, such as when he replaced his compatriot during Euro 2024, suggests he could adapt quickly to the demands at the Etihad Stadium.
Liverpool: A Potential Backup or Alternative?
Liverpool’s interest in Zubimendi was particularly strong last summer, but since then, their midfield dynamics have changed. The addition of Ryan Gravenberch has given manager Jürgen Klopp a reliable holding midfielder, and Arne Slot’s tactical reshuffling has helped alleviate the club’s previous need for a player like Zubimendi. As such, it’s speculated that Liverpool may no longer pursue him with the same urgency, particularly given the form of Gravenberch.
That said, Liverpool have been known for their midfield rebuild under Klopp, and Zubimendi could still be seen as a valuable addition to an already talented squad. His technical ability and versatility could provide depth in multiple positions, and his addition would ensure that Klopp has a wealth of options for the coming years.
Real Madrid: The Long-Term Successor to Toni Kroos?
The most recent club to enter the race for Zubimendi’s signature is Real Madrid. Zubimendi has long been seen as a potential successor to Toni Kroos, who has been a pillar of Madrid’s midfield for over a decade. With Kroos now in the twilight of his career, Zubimendi could offer the perfect long-term replacement for the German maestro.
Real Madrid’s interest is likely motivated by their need to strengthen their midfield for the future, especially given their aging stars in the middle of the park. Zubimendi’s intelligent playmaking, ability to break lines with passes, and defensive discipline could provide the perfect complement to Madrid’s attacking style.
The Future of Zubimendi: Will He Stay at Real Sociedad?
Despite the growing speculation surrounding his potential move, Real Sociedad remains determined to keep hold of their prized asset, at least for the time being. Sporting director Roberto Olabe has publicly stated that the club has no intention of allowing Zubimendi to leave in January, and they are confident that no deal will be struck in the winter window.
However, the summer transfer window could present a different scenario. Zubimendi’s contract runs until 2027, but with the player now reportedly eager to move on, his departure seems increasingly likely. Real Sociedad will likely be willing to negotiate at the right price, especially if they are able to secure an adequate replacement.
Conclusion: A Key Transfer to Watch in 2024
Zubimendi’s imminent availability makes him one of the most intriguing transfer stories for the next year. Clubs like Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Real Madrid are all expected to be heavily involved in the race for his signature. The 25-year-old’s decision to leave Real Sociedad could be a defining moment for his career, and whichever club secures his services will gain a highly versatile and technically gifted midfielder.
As Zubimendi prepares to take the next step in his career, all eyes will be on his potential destination. With several top-tier clubs vying for his signature, his move in 2024 is shaping up to be one of the transfer windows’ most significant stories.
