Arsenal and Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their reported pursuit of Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi.
Both the player and now La Real boss Imanol Alguacil have gone on record to state that Zubimendi will remain at the club next season.
With Champions League qualification almost secured at Anoeta, Alguacil is adamant that the 24-year-old will feature for the side in the competition next season.
Speaking to Marca, Alguacil said: "I know what he thinks and what he wants, and I have no doubt that Martin wants to play in the Champions League with us next year. Zubimendi has a contract with us. It's the best place he can be and he wants to be with us."
Zubimendi has been almost ever-present for La Real this season, missing just two La Liga games through suspension as the club now sit eight points clear in fourth.
The Evening Standard claims that interested clubs such as Arsenal would need to pay the €60m (£52m) release clause inserted into Zubimendi's new contract, which was signed in October.
Even then a deal may not be straightforward, though, with the player said to be happy in his current surroundings and playing at the top level of European football.
Andrew Delaney
