Manchester United have reportedly suffered a blow in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
The 25-year-old has established himself as a key figure in the Real Sociedad midfield, which is demonstrated by the fact that he racked up 45 competitive appearances in the 2023-24 campaign.
Zubimendi's consistent displays for the Basque side impressed Spain boss Luis de la Fuente, who included him in his 26-man squad for Euro 2024.
De la Fuente opted to use Rodri and Fabian Ruiz as his two main central midfielders, but Zubimendi still managed to make four appearances in Spain's successful European Championship campaign, including a fine performance in the final win over England.
The Real Sociedad man replaced the injured Rodri at half time of the final, coming on to slip seamlessly into the Spanish midfield to help his country claim the silverware with a 2-1 victory.
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Man United suffer setback in Zubimendi pursuit
While Zubimendi is on his summer break, there is uncertainty about where he will be playing his club football in the upcoming season.
A recent report claimed that Man United were keen on the Spain international, while he has also been linked with Barcelona and Arsenal.
The Red Devils are believed to be considering a move, with Zubimendi said to have a €60m (£50.7m) release clause in his contract.
However, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Man United may find it difficult to prise Zubimendi away from Real Sociedad this summer.
The deal is said to be a 'complicated' one because Zubimendi is 'very happy' at Real Sociedad and is in no rush to leave his boyhood club.
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Who are Man United's alternative midfield targets?
Having signed defender Leny Yoro and forward Joshua Zirkzee, Man United are now looking to strengthen their engine room ahead of the 2024-25 season.
There is a real chance that space will open up in the club's midfield department, with Scott McTominay, Casemiro and Christian Eriksen all facing uncertain futures at Old Trafford.
Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte is viewed as Man United's top midfield target, but the player's €70m (£58.9m) valuation is proving to be a stumbling block.
There has been a suggestion that the Red Devils are considering a move for Sporting Lisbon's Morten Hjulmand, while they have also been linked with Adrien Rabiot and Youssouf Fofana.
