Manchester City are contemplating signing Martin Zubimendi in the January transfer window to fill the void left by Rodri’s injury.
City have lost four games in a row following their 2-1 defeat at Brighton on Saturday and are five points adrift of Liverpool at the top of the Premier League. Pep Guardiola cut a disconsolute figure in the aftermath of the loss, admitting it might be time for another side to overtake City after a period of dominance.
But behind the scenes, City are already plotting ways to improve their squad, which has been decimated by injuries. The serious knee injury suffered by star midfielder Rodri in September has presented Guardiola with an issue – and he is reportedly ready to green light a major spend mid-season to rectify things.
Zubimendi was courted by Liverpool, Arsenal and Barcelona in the summer after helping Spain win Euro 2024. But he ultimately decided to stay put at his hometown club Real Sociedad for another season.
The 25-year-old recently doubled down on that stance, saying: “The best solution is staying. I want to grow and develop here.” However, The Sun now reports that Zubimendi has actually had a change of heart and is ready for a big move elsewhere - adding to speculation over his future.
City have the funds available to trigger his €60million (£50m) release clause and believe he can be convinced to move in January. The presence of Zubimendi’s international team-mate and occasional midfield partner Rodri could prove to be an important factor in negotiations.
Zubimendi came through the Real Sociedad academy and has made 203 appearances for the club, where he remains under contract until June 2027. But his form has sparked continued interest from the biggest sides in Europe and La Real know they can’t keep hold of him forever.
Speaking last month about the decision to reject Liverpool, Zubimendi said: “My philosophy is to do what I feel at all times. So far, things have gone well for me. It is true that there was a lot of noise. I went through uncomfortable moments. The best thing for me was to stay here and I am happy and at peace. There is a lot of noise because of the press but in the end everything is easier than all that.
“Of course I don't regret it, I can't think that after four or five games at the start of the season. I made my decision from within, I thought it was the best thing to do, the results don't affect me. I see potential in this team, you just have to watch us train and I'm excited about having a good season.”