Paul Scholes has suggested that Ruben Amorim may have subtly indicated a potential transfer involving a €60 million signing for Manchester United, although Arsenal is likely to play a significant role in the decision-making process.
On Thursday night, Manchester United progressed to the quarter-finals of the Europa League by defeating Real Sociedad at Old Trafford. The Red Devils delivered one of their most impressive performances under Amorim, clearly dominating the match even before their opponents were reduced to ten players.
Despite this convincing victory, one player from the opposing team has piqued Amorim’s interest.
Martin Zubimendi, a midfield dynamo who has earned 15 caps for Spain, was referred to as a “top player” by Amorim in his pre-match remarks.
“He’s a top player who can transform a team,” Amorim stated. “In that defensive midfield role, he excels at reading the game and disrupting transitions.
“He is also integral to the build-up play; I know him well, and it’s clear to everyone that he is a top player capable of making a significant impact.”
In response to Amorim’s remarks on TNT Sports, United legend Paul Scholes commented: “From that interview, it’s evident that the manager has a strong interest in Zubimendi!
“If we were to sell three or four players, we might have the opportunity to acquire him, but tonight is a crucial night.”
Zubimendi primed for summer move
Zubimendi attracted significant interest from Liverpool last summer, with Arne Slot identifying the midfielder as his top transfer target, regardless of the position.
Regrettably for Slot, Liverpool was unable to persuade Zubimendi to depart from his childhood club, where he opted to stay for at least another season.
Nevertheless, it is anticipated that Zubimendi will take a significant step in his career at the conclusion of the season, with Arsenal being the likely destination rather than Manchester United or Liverpool.
While Manchester United has shown interest in the 26-year-old, transfer expert Ben Jacobs has indicated that Zubimendi is not a priority for the club.
On March 7, Jacobs stated, “Although circumstances may change for Manchester United if Casemiro and Christian Eriksen leave this summer, leading to a need for a new midfielder, they are currently not pursuing a deal for Zubimendi.
The club’s focus is on acquiring a striker and possibly a wide attacker.
Any budget will be allocated towards securing a goalscorer, and the challenge with Zubimendi lies in the fact that, despite an attractive €60 million (£51 million, $64.8 million) release clause, the associated taxes, wages, and agent fees significantly increase the overall cost of the transfer.
Arsenal is actively working to convince Zubimendi to make the move before the summer.
The Daily Mail has previously reported extensively on the likelihood of Zubimendi joining Arsenal at the end of the season.
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