Pep Guardiola is pushing for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi to join Manchester City in January as a replacement for the injured Rodri. However, City face stiff competition from Liverpool and Arsenal, with all three clubs prepared to meet the player’s £50.1m release clause.
DETAILS:
Manchester City’s midfield has struggled in Rodri’s absence after the Ballon d’Or winner sustained a season-ending knee injury in September. With just one win in their last six Premier League games, City have dropped to fourth place, eight points behind Liverpool.
To address this, Guardiola has reportedly identified Zubimendi, one of La Liga’s standout players, as the ideal reinforcement. Liverpool and Arsenal are also interested, and Real Sociedad remain firm on the 25-year-old’s release clause. Zubimendi previously rejected Liverpool in the summer, preferring to remain in Spain.
Another potential target for City is Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, but a mid-season move appears unlikely as Palace fight to avoid relegation.
QUOTES:
Guardiola’s urgency: Reports from Spain suggest Guardiola believes Zubimendi is the “signing to fix City’s crisis” and has “asked for reinforcements in January.”
On Rodri’s absence: “Guardiola has not been able to hide how much he is missing Rodri,” one report noted.
CITATIONS: Sources include reports from Football365, Spanish outlets, and transfer insiders tracking Zubimendi’s situation.
KEEP IN MIND: City’s January activity could make or break their season. While Zubimendi is Guardiola’s top choice, Liverpool and Arsenal’s interest might drive up competition. Any delays could force City to explore alternative options, such as Wharton, in the summer.
