Fabrizio Romano Reveals Why 24-Year-Old Barcelona Target Did Not Move This Summer

Barcelona supervisor Xavi has lengthy been an admirer of Actual Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Many believed that the midfielder would lastly swap golf equipment this summer time, however a transfer has not panned out.

Romano reveals why Barcelona didn’t signal Zubimendi this summer time

Discussing the curious case of Zubimendi, trade insider Fabrizio Romano claimed that there was one cause why the 24-year-old didn’t transfer, and that was his love for Sociedad. The Italian journalist mentioned Zubimendi wished to play within the UEFA Champions League this season, however just for Sociedad.

Writing for Caught Offside, Romano revealed:

“I’ve had some followers ask me about what occurred after hyperlinks with Martin Zubimendi earlier in the summertime. Actually, it’s quite simple: Zubimendi loves Actual Sociedad and he wished to play Champions League soccer at Actual Sociedad.

“He wasn’t attracted by some other risk. So there have been no concrete negotiations. Barca boss Xavi has been an enormous fan since a very long time however Zubimendi all the time wished to remain, so there was nothing on this summer time.”

Zubimendi additionally has admirers within the English Premier League

Barcelona boss Xavi’s admiration for Zubimendi is fairly well-documented. However the Catalan supervisor is just not the one one who values the Spaniard. In accordance with stories, Arsenal have additionally been protecting tabs on Zubimendi for some time. They in the end didn’t make an official bid for Zubimendi this summer time and signed Declan Rice from West Ham United as a substitute.

Having already splurged a large $126.89 million on a defensive midfielder, Arsenal would possibly chorus from spending massive bucks on a participant of comparable profile any time quickly. Jorginho or Thomas Partey’s departure, nonetheless, may compel them to rethink their stance.

Spain worldwide Zubimendi is likely one of the greatest gamers in La Liga in his place. He is a superb passer, reads the sport properly, is aware of the way to take the ball off attackers, and may pop up with an odd aim or two every so often. The academy graduate has so far performed 146 matches for Sociedad throughout competitions, scoring 4 occasions and offering six assists. Zubimendi, whose contract expires in June 2027, is at present valued at $43.53 million (through Transfermarkt).