Real Sociedad have already closed the renewal of Martin Zubimendi. 'Sport' reports that the player will sign for two more years with the 'Txuri-urdin' side later this month, which would remove him directly from the list of possible candidates for Sergio Busquets' place in June 2023.
Zubimendi is happy at Real Sociedad. At least for the moment, he is not thinking of leaving the Basque club. The club are ready to renew him until 2027.
'Sport' gives a date for Real Sociedad's announcement. His continuity is expected to be announced later this month. His clause will remain at 60 million euros.
The news will come as a blow to FC Barcelona. He was the board's first choice to replace Busquets, whose contract expires in June 2023.
The fact that he renews now, explains 'Sport', would take him away from the Camp Nou for the 2023-24 season. It is not ruled out that, in the future and if the 'Cules' still need him in midfield, they could try to transfer him again.
In any case, Xavi will have to look for alternatives. The other option on the table is Wolves' Ruben Neves. However, he does not quite fit the coach, as his profile is quite different from Zubimendi's.