Premier League giants Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool reportedly face a fresh threat in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who is also being eyed up by Real Madrid.
The Spanish Euro 2024 winner looked set to complete a marquee switch to Anfield in the summer transfer window, only to decide that he could not part ways with his boyhood club.
Zubimendi has since broken his silence on rejecting a move to Arne Slot's side, admitting that 'selfishness' was a factor in his decision, but he is still being lined up for a Premier League move in 2025.
A Zubimendi-less Liverpool have seen Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch shine at the base of their midfield, but Wataru Endo is not a long-term option, and Tyler Morton is yet to win over Slot.
As a result, the Reds have been tipped to reignite their interest in January, but they could face fierce competition from Manchester City, who have crumbled in the absence of Ballon d'Or winner Rodri.
Real Madrid eyeing Zubimendi as Toni Kroos replacement?
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In addition, Arsenal - who could lose Thomas Partey and Jorginho next summer - are believed to hold an interest and could steal a march on their rivals if Real Sociedad sporting director Roberto Olabe replaces the outgoing Edu.
However, AS now reports that Zubimendi is a name that 'stands out' on Real Madrid's list of potential engine room reinforcements, and Los Blancos believe that he could fill Toni Kroos's boots at the Bernabeu.
The long-serving Kroos hung up his boots after Euro 2024, and even though Zubimendi has achieved acclaim mainly for his work as a number six, Carlo Ancelotti supposedly believes that he could act as a Kroos or Xabi Alonso-type playmaker.
The Champions League holders also need to be wary of interest from Barcelona, who have reportedly held talks with Zubimendi's agent Inaki Ibanez, but the Blaugrana are not considered strong contenders due to their financial struggles.
Furthermore, Real Madrid are hopeful that their strong relationship with Real Sociedad could work in their favour, as the two clubs have shaken hands on several high-profile permanent and loan deals, including those of Martin Odegaard, Takefusa Kubo and Asier Illarramendi.
Which Real Madrid 'boxes' does Zubimendi tick?
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Zubimendi supposedly fulfils four key criteria that Real Madrid are looking for in a new signing, the first being that he is about to enter what should be his prime years, as he turns 26 in February.
The Spain international would also be affordable thanks to the €60m (£49.7m) release clause in his contract, and the midfield is seen as a critical area for rejuvenation in 2025.
Finally, Real Madrid are supposedly in favour of signing young talents from Spain as opposed to abroad, although Olabe has insisted that he is not worried about the prospect of losing Zubimendi in January.
The 25-year-old worked his way up through the youth system in San Sebastian and has now represented Real Sociedad on 209 occasions, scoring nine goals and providing nine assists.
Zubimendi also memorably replaced the injured Rodri at half time during the Euro 2024 final against England, and he scored his first goal for his country against Denmark in October.
Ben Knapton
