Manchester United were reportedly prepared to vie with Arsenal in pursuit of one of their priority targets but may have to reconsider any potential approach after learning of his stance.
Indeed, the Red Devils had reportedly added Euros winner Martin Zubmendi to their midfield shortlist, which is also thought to contain Manuel Ugarte, Adrien Rabiot and Sofyan Amrabat – the latter of whom they’ve opted against activating their buy clause for but aren’t closed off to hashing out a deal on their conditions.
It comes amid strong reports that experienced duo Casemiro and Scott McTominay could be sold in order to recuperate funds for additional arrivals; Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro became the first two signings of the INEOS era over the past week and a half.
However, Erik ten Hag has made it clear he wants to keep McTominay, who’s attracting ‘mounting interest’ from a host of clubs across Europe.
Zubimendi has already outlined his transfer stance amidst Premier League interest
As for Zubimendi, he has been heavily targeted by the Gunners in recent weeks, although their move for defender Riccardo Calafiori could price them out a deal for the Euros winner, given that Real Sociedad will demand £60 million to sanction his exit.
Both clubs may also have to resort to complying with the 25-year-old’s wishes, though, as he has made it clear that his preference this year is to stay with his boyhood team, where he has been since 2011.
While away on international duty and after being made aware of the sides chasing his signature, he told El Diario Vasco (cited by ED): “Where am I going to play next season? I’m going to be at Real Sociedad. I have a contract with Real Sociedad, and that’s where I’m most comfortable.”
