Xabi Alonso has instructed Man Utd why they need to pull off £53m deal

Manchester United are reportedly setting their sights on Real Sociedad's midfield maestro Martin Zubimendi as Erik ten Hag continues his Old Trafford revolution. With the Red Devils already securing the signatures of Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro this summer, the transfer rumour mill is in full swing, suggesting that more fresh faces could be donning the famous red shirt soon.

Zubimendi has caught the eye of United's scouting network, with the club's new sporting director Dan Ashworth and Ineos Group keen to bolster the squad. The Spaniard, who has a hefty £53million release clause, is among a host of names linked with a move to Manchester, alongside Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte and Benfica's Joao Neves.

The 25-year-old Spanish international has been highly praised by none other than Xabi Alonso, who had the privilege of managing him at Real Sociedad's B team before taking the reins at Bayer Leverkusen. Alonso, speaking to The Guardian last September, didn't hold back in his praise for Zubimendi, highlighting his selfless play and desirability for any coach.

"Martin's a player all coaches would want," Alonso said. "He's generous, he always thinks more about his teammates than himself.

"He has that ability to generate play, to make those around him better, always offering solutions; to improve the move. He understands what the next step is before the ball gets to him. He has that ability to organise, the axis. I loved working with him."

Manchester United's pre-season preparations are in full swing under Ten Hag as they gear up for the new Premier League season. Having already versed Rosenborg and Rangers in friendlies, the team will now head off for the United States for an additional three friendly fixtures.