Chelsea have ‘registered their official interest’ in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi ahead of the winter window, journalist Simon Phillips has informed GiveMeSport.
The 23-year-old is believed to be on the radar of a host of top sides following a string of impressive displays for his boyhood club and could be the subject of intense interest this January.
Chelsea transfer news – Martin Zubimendi
Phillips recently revealed that Chelsea ‘have made contact’ with Zubimendi’s representatives as new manager Graham Potter looks to revamp his engine room options.
However, the Blues could face stiff competition for the Spain international, with fellow Premier League side Manchester United named amongst his potential suitors.
TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey has claimed that Erik ten Hag has ‘concrete interest’ in Zubimendi following an outstanding start to the season for Sociedad.
It’s believed the tough-tackling dynamo has a £56 million release clause written into his contract but that United would attempt to negotiate that figure down if they did make a formal offer.
Zubimendi’s current contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2027, though, meaning Chelsea and United may have to pay a premium price to secure his signature.
What has Phillips said about Zubimendi?
Phillips has told GMS that Barcelona are also keen on Zubimendi, with Xavi said to be a big fan of his.
Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know
He said: “I was given the name Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, a Spain international. Chelsea have registered their official interest in him with his agent, so they have started that.
“Barcelona are another club that are interested in signing him. Apparently, Xavi really likes him.”
Would Zubimendi be a good signing?
Zubimendi is a defensive-minded midfielder who has racked up just eight goal contributions in 114 appearances for Sociedad.
As per WhoScored, the 5 foot 11 ace has won 2.4 aerial duels while averaging 0.9 interceptions and 0.6 blocks per league game this season, placing him in the top three amongst his teammates for all metrics.
With both N’Golo Kante and Jorginho out of contract in just over six months’ time, Zubimendi may be viewed as the ideal replacement for the pair by Potter.
Only time will tell if Chelsea opt to make a formal approach for Zubimendi, but it seems as though he is one of several options under consideration.
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