Barcelona are in the market for a new defensive midfielder in the coming summer as they look to find a long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets.
For a while, one of the club’s top targets is Martin Zubimendi. The Real Sociedad starlet has been rated highly by Xavi Hernandez, who believes the midfielder should take no time in settling into the club’s style of play.
A recent report from Mundo Deportivo has offered an update on the future of Zubimendi. It appears the club have asked the player to wait and see if they can afford him in the coming summer.
Under normal circumstances, Zubimendi would be a no-brainer for Barcelona and his €60 million release clause would also be accessible for the club. However, Laliga’s strict Financial Fair Play regulations have made life difficult for Barça.
As a result, the Blaugrana have asked Zubimendi to wait and see how their economic situation holds up in the summer. As things stand, the club are not in a position to afford the player’s €60 million release clause.
The Spaniard has no shortage of suitors either. Clubs from the Premier League are already eyeing a move for the midfielder in the coming summer. The player is in no rush to leave Real Sociedad and is likely to wait around for Barça.
That being said, the Catalans must move swiftly if they are to get their hands on the player. It is also imperative that the club manage to get rid of their unwanted stars, in an attempt to generate fresh revenue. Samuel Umtiti is one of the players tipped for an exit at a nominal fee.
Barcelona do have fallback options, though, with the club reportedly keeping an eye on Uruguayan whizkid Fabricio Diaz.
