Man Utd line up half-price alternative to Enzo Fernandez

Karan Tejwani

• Updated: 1 Jan 2023 17:37 GMT
• 4 min read

Manchester United are interested in signing a new midfielder, with Enzo Fernandez being among their top targets, but it seems as though he is going to be off to Chelsea.

The Red Devils had been keeping an eye on Fernandez’s progress even before he moved to Benfica and his World Cup performances – where he was named Young Player of the Tournament – raised interest in him.

Chelsea were first to move, though, and were willing to pay his mammoth release clause, which put a dent in Manchester United’s plans.

READ: Chelsea to beat Man Utd and Liverpool to Enzo Fernandez signing

Now, though, they have an alternative who would cost them half of what Fernandez would’ve cost: Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who has been impressing with the La Liga club lately.

Man Utd targeting Zubimendi

It’s reported by Mundo Deportivo that Erik ten Hag is a huge admirer of the player and would be open to having him in his squad at Old Trafford.

Manchester United are quite short in midfield, despite the signings of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen in the summer transfer window and they will be looking to add some more.

READ: Enzo Fernandez has said yes to Chelsea - Fabrizio Romano

They have also had other names like Frenkie de Jong and Jude Bellingham on their list, but Zubimendi would be an attractive alternative considering he’d cost much less.

It’s believed that Zubimendi will cost around €60 million if Manchester United wish to get him away from Real Sociedad, but there is interest from other clubs which may be a problem for Erik ten Hag.

Barcelona are also said to be interested in signing Zubimendi, but have one issue: they are still in a bit of financial trouble and can’t fork out a fee like some of their rivals.

They are more likely looking for an option they can acquire on a free transfer, such as one of the Chelsea duo of N’Golo Kante and Jorginho, as it won’t cost them.