Manchester United are keeping tabs on Real Sociedad holding midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to reports in the Catalan media.

The 23-year-old was actually a target for Barcelona when they were planning to sell Frenkie de Jong to the Red Devils.

However, it appears as though United have now decided to target Zubimendi, suggesting that manager Erik ten Hag has now completely given up on de Jong.

The Netherlands international has spoken out in recent days to say he is keen to remain at rhe Camp Nou for the next decade, pretty much ending speculation that he could join United or Chelsea.

Going after Zubimendi’s signature instead, though, won’t be straightforward either. He only signed a new contract last month, extending his stay in the Basque country until 2027.

A release clause was included but it is believed it would cost around €65m (£56m) to recruit the Spanish international during the January transfer window. That is only €15m less than what United offered for de Jong last summer.