Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in January.
The 25-year-old has enjoyed a success-laden calendar year to date, forming part of Spain's Euro 2024-winning squad in Germany over the summer.
Zubimendi was not a first-choice option in the engine room for La Roja but still played a vital part in his nation's fourth European Championship triumph.
The Real Sociedad star came off the bench to replace Man City enforcer Rodri at half time during the final against Gareth Southgate's England.
Since returning to the stresses and strains of club action, Zubimendi has featured in eight La Liga matches, scoring against Rayo Vallecano on August 18.
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Man City keen on Liverpool target Zubimendi?
According to Football Insider, Man City are interested in securing the services of Real Sociedad's Zubimendi during the January transfer window.
The report claims that the Citizens are exploring the Spaniard as a potential New Year arrival, with the Premier League champions looking to strengthen in midfield.
With Rodri suffering a serious knee injury during the draw with Arsenal on September 22, the 28-year-old is set to miss the rest of the campaign.
It is understood that a January switch from Real Sociedad to the Etihad for Zubimendi remains unlikely at this stage due to hefty price-tag placed on the midfielder.
That being said, it is believed that Man City have a significant amount of money to spend following the sale of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid for £81m over the summer.
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Liverpool to suffer more midfield heartbreak?
Man City could be set to swoop in for Zubimendi just months after Premier League title rivals Liverpool came mightily close to the 25-year-old's signature.
It was widely reported that Real Sociedad and Arne Slot's Reds had agreed a transfer fee for the Euro 2024 winner, before the player decided to remain at his boyhood club.
Liverpool are allegedly willing to reopen their pursuit of Zubimendi in January, however that chase would be significantly harder with Man City in pursuit.
The Citizens are also supposedly considering a move for Inter Milan and Italy midfielder Nicolo Barella in the New Year.
Carter White
