Real Madrid are set to enter a competitive race with Arsenal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as the Spanish giants look to secure a potential successor for veteran midfielder Luka Modric. According to The Athletic, Madrid's hierarchy has already initiated discussions with the 26-year-old's representatives.
Zubimendi, who has made 21 league appearances this season for Real Sociedad, previously demonstrated his commitment to the club by declining a move to Liverpool last summer, despite the English side's willingness to trigger his £50 million release clause. Real Sociedad currently sits in 11th position in LaLiga.
In other transfer developments, Juventus are planning to secure the long-term future of U.S. men's national team midfielder Weston McKennie. Tuttosport reports that the Italian club aims to extend McKennie's contract until 2028, with manager Thiago Motta considering the 26-year-old as an integral part of the club's future plans. McKennie has already made 26 appearances across all competitions this season.
Manchester's rival clubs, United and City, are both monitoring Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, according to TeamTalk. The 21-year-old midfielder has attracted attention from multiple Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United. Crystal Palace are preparing for potential offers but will only consider substantial bids for Wharton, whose current contract runs until 2029 without a release clause.
Meanwhile, Wolves forward Matheus Cunha's new contract includes a £62 million release clause, as reported by the Daily Mail. The clause, which becomes active in summer, has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur. The 25-year-old's impressive performances this season have sparked widespread interest, with the clause allowing for direct activation without transfer fee negotiations.
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, currently a free agent, is reportedly favoring a return to European football despite receiving offers from Saudi Pro League and MLS clubs. According to Nicolo Schira, Marseille has expressed interest in the 31-year-old, who was released by Juventus in November. Pogba is eligible to resume his career next month following an 18-month suspension for doping violations.
In other news, Fulham have completed the signing of Willian six months after his departure, while Manchester United's manager Ruben Amorim acknowledges his position is under scrutiny. Sources also indicate that Galatasaray are showing interest in Newcastle's Trippier, and reports suggest Napoli found Garnacho's demands excessive.
