Man United ‘preparing’ £37m bid for Champions League midfielder with £50m release clause

Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £37 million bid for one midfielder ahead of what is expected to become a busy summer transfer window.

After the window opened earlier this week, United have tabled a bid for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and also targeted various other potential signings.

They are firstly looking to strengthen in central defence and the striker positions, although improving their engine room in midfield is another priority for the club.

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Now, it has been claimed by the Spanish newspaper Nacional that United are planning on making an opening bid for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

It was added that INEOS are looking to make an opening bid of £37.8 million for the 25-year-old, although this is expected to fall short of the La Liga club’s asking price.

Zubimendi is a talented midfielder player who operates in a deeper role. He played 45 games for the Spanish outfit last term, including all eight of their Champions League fixtures.

He has three years remaining on his current deal at the Reale Arena, which includes a release clause worth £50.5 million.

It has previously been suggested that United are looking for a midfield partner for the talented Kobbie Mainoo, who looks to be at his best in the number eight role at Old Trafford.

That could make Zubimendi a suitable fit alongside the England international, although United will likely be assessing their options during a summer window where they must make every penny count.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s side are walking a financial tightrope currently and need to make sizable sales in order to address their transfer priorities.

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