Florentino Pérez is keeping a close eye on the market to strengthen Real Madrid's team, but for now, he's in no rush. The club's plan is to avoid making any signings in the winter transfer window, aiming to save all the money for next summer. Among the priorities is to sign a defensive midfielder, with Martín Zubimendi being the top candidate. However, problems are looming, and everyone is aware of it.
The Times has revealed that Pep Guardiola's Manchester City is going all out to sign a midfielder in January. The chosen one is none other than Martín Zubimendi, and they're ready to immediately pay his release clause valued at 60 million euros. The citizens aren't holding back, aware that next summer they might be unable to make transfers due to a possible sanction being prepared by the Premier League.
Among the possible sanctions Manchester City could face is the inability to sign players in upcoming transfer windows. That's why Pep Guardiola's team is going all in with as much money as possible in January, trying to secure the players they want. Among those targets is Martín Zubimendi, who is also on Real Madrid's agenda for the next season.
Martín Zubimendi at Risk: the Condition to Join Real Madrid
Imanol Alguacil has identified the need for an experienced and quality midfielder to fill that position. And the player who has caught his attention is Dani Ceballos, who currently has little prominence at Real Madrid. The situation of Dani Ceballos in Carlo Ancelotti's team suggests that his departure is imminent, which could immediately open the doors to Real Sociedad for him.
For Real Sociedad, the arrival of Ceballos represents the experience and creativity the team needs in the midfield. Imanol Alguacil believes the Spaniard could adapt well to his club's playing style and would fill a crucial position that has been weakened after Merino's departure. Ceballos's addition could be key to improving performance in La Liga.
Carlo Ancelotti has given his approval for Ceballos's departure, as he hasn't managed to establish himself at Madrid. Ceballos's statistics reflect his lack of minutes and the absence of a prominent role under Ancelotti's management. This scenario has led Florentino Pérez to include the midfielder on the transferable players list.
Martín Zubimendi could be part of this negotiation, but Real Madrid is asking to delay it until the next season. It's a risk, given the imminent interest from a Guardiola who is going all out and has the 60 million for his clause ready.