Real Madrid is facing an urgent need in midfield. Since the retirement of Toni Kroos, Carlo Ancelotti hasn't managed to find the balance necessary to make the midfield work properly. That's why Florentino Pérez is already studying the transfer market to try to find the best solution.
Aurélien Tchouaméni, who in theory should have taken over Kroos's role, has not lived up to expectations. His performance has raised doubts both in the coaching staff and in the board. This has led Florentino Pérez to consider top-level transfers to reinforce that position. It is true that there has been talks of a January transfer. However, the most likely thing is that the white club will wait until summer to make a move.
Florentino Pérez has been considering several options. Names that have been raised include Manchester City's Rodri and Bayern Munich's Kimmich. However, as revealed by El Chiringuito, the Real Madrid president has identified an even better option in La Liga.
Neither Kimmich nor Rodri: Florentino Pérez Finds Better Transfer in LaLiga
Kimmich, 29, is entering the final stretch of his career, while Rodri, 28, is still recovering from a serious injury. In light of this scenario, Florentino Pérez has decided to focus his attention on other alternatives such as Zubimendi, from Real Sociedad.
At 25 years old, the midfielder from San Sebastián is in the prime of his career and has established himself as a key player in Imanol Alguacil's team. His ability to recover the ball, lead the defensive transition and distribute the game accurately provide him with a profile that would fit perfectly into Ancelotti's system. Zubimendi would be a top reinforcement for Real Madrid.
In addition, the Real Sociedad number 4 also has in his favor the knowledge of LaLiga, something that would speed up his adaptation to Madrid. According to reports in El Chiringuito, Zubimendi is appealing not only to Florentino Pérez, but also Carlo Ancelotti. The latter sees him as the ideal substitute to reinforce the midfield.
Zubimendi to Real Madrid on Florentino Pérez's Orders
Zubimendi has a 60-million-euro release clause, an affordable figure for Real Madrid, especially considering his potential and long-term projection. In addition, his transfer would mean a strategic blow in La Liga, as it would weaken one of the most competitive rivals in the championship.
Everything points to Zubimendi becoming Real Madrid's number one target for next summer. His arrival could be the definite solution to the midfield issues, restoring the balance that has been sorely lacking since the departure of Toni Kroos.