Manchester United are ready to compete with Barcelona for the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to a new transfer rumour.

The Lowdown: Zubimendi shining for Sociedad

The Spaniard is maturing into a key figure for Sociedad currently, already starting 13 matches in La Liga this season and has been compared to Xabi Alonso, in terms of style.

Zubimendi's current deal doesn't expire until the summer of 2027 but that hasn't stopped interest from emerging, with the 23-year-old someone with a bright future.

He is believed to have a €60m (£51.5m) release clause and a fresh update suggests that Erik ten Hag could see the midfielder as a target for United.

The Latest: Man Utd eye up move

According to Mundo Deportivo [via Sport Witness], Sociedad are 'attentive to threats' from the Premier League, which is where United potentially come into play.

They are believed to be 'following' Zubimendi's progress, as Erik ten Hag looks to further bolster his midfield options.

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The Verdict: Good for midfield depth

Zubumendi could be someone who comes in as both an immediate and long-term addition at Old Trafford, as he continues to blossom into a top-class defensive midfielder.

Casemiro is 30 and won't go on forever, while doubts remain of Fred and Scott McTominay's worth, so he could be someone who becomes a regular over time.

To be compared to someone of Alonso's legendary status says a lot about Zubimendi and he could add further defensive expertise and guile on the ball, having enjoyed an 84.5% pass completion rate and won an average of 2.4 aerial duels per game in the league this season.