Manchester United could spend another transfer window battling it out with La Liga titans Barcelona - as both clubs are keen to land the signature of Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi.
Last summer saw the two teams spend the entire window trying to do business directly with each other over the potential sale of Barca star Frenkie de Jong. However, a deal failed to materialise despite the fact the two clubs agreed a fee at one stage.
The landscape has changed this window and United and Barcelona will be going head-to-head for a player that doesn't belong to either of them - yet. Spanish outlet AS, per Sport Witness, recently claimed that the Red Devils are mulling over the idea of triggering the 23-year-old midfielder's £51million release clause.
Fellow Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo have reported that Barcelona are well aware they have competition in the form of United, who have entered the race. Erik ten Hag's side sent scouts to keep a close eye on Zubimendi for two of his Europa League outings earlier this season.
It is thought that Barcelona and United are leading the race for the skilful Sociedad star despite interest from other respected clubs elsewhere across the continent. Ten Hag and Blaugrana boss Xavi are rumoured to be 'in love' with Zubimendi's talent.
United are expected to boast the upper hand when pitted against Barcelona, due to the fact the Catalan giants are still so financially hamstrung from years of economic mismanagement.
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For all of the speculation, Sociedad are reportedly calm and do not expect one of their prized assets to be on the move anytime soon. In fact, the club hierarchy expect Zubimendi to stay put and help the side secure some form of silverware as well as qualify for the Champions League.
Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has claimed that the player is keen on remaining in San Sebastian. He said: "[Zubimendi] has had many opportunities to leave, but he wants to stay at Real and is a fundamental pillar."
"If the player wants to leave, I am not very much in favour of him staying," he added.
It would certainly come as a surprise if Zubimendi was to bid farewell to Sociedad in the coming windows, whether it be winter or next summer, given he only recently signed a lengthy contract that sees him tied to the club until the summer of 2027.
United and Barcelona stand little to no chance of being able to talk Soceidad down from the release clause valuation, so if anyone does secure Zubimendi's services, they'l have to pay north of £50m.
United already parted ways with a significant amount of cash to bolster their midfield last summer with the signing of Casemiro, as well as nabbing Christian Eriksen on a free transfer.
However, both of those options are undeniably nearing the end of their playing days and are not exactly signings that are going to be a part of the Red Devils' long-term future in the same way Zubimendi would be.
In contrast, Barcelona have a number of young stars in their midfield, including Pedri and Gavi, who will be difficult to displace for quite some time.
