According to The Athletic, Manchester United are seeking alternatives to the 23-year-old Ugarte due to his high asking price of over £50 million ($63.85m). Fans now believe that minority owners INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe should focus on Spain’s Zubimendi, valued at €50m (£42.8m/$54.7m).
This summer, United has only signed centre-back Leny Yoro and striker Joshua Zirkzee. However, Yoro is already sidelined with a three-month injury. To improve on last season’s underwhelming performance, many argue that United needs to bolster their midfield and other areas.
Zubimendi, who debuted for Real Sociedad’s first team in the 2018-19 season, has established himself as a Spain international, contributing to the country’s Euro 2024 victory. As a highly-regarded defensive midfielder, his potential departure won’t come cheap, especially with three years remaining on his contract.
Unless there are quick developments, Zubimendi will be preparing for Sociedad’s La Liga opener against Rayo Vallecano on August 18. Whether United will move for the San Sebastian-born player remains uncertain.
Spain
