Martin Zubimendi, a midfielder for Real Sociedad who has been linked to Barcelona as a possible replacement for departed captain Sergio Busquets, has ruled out leaving the team this summer.
Zubimendi, a native of San Sebastian, joined La Real's youth program at the age of 12 in 2011. He advanced through the various age groups, and as of 2020, he has consistently played for the first team.
With only five games remaining, La Real have a seven-point lead over Villarreal in fifth place and are challenging for a top four finish to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in almost ten years thanks to Zubimendi, who has consistently played Europa League football in recent years.
According to rumors in Spain, Zubimendi has already been selected as a like-for-like replacement for Busquets, whose probable departure from Camp Nou was long anticipated but only officially confirmed this week.
However, the 24-year-old, whose deal with Anoeta expires in 2027, doesn't seem enthusiastic.
He admitted to Radio Marca Donostia, "I have never expressed anything about wishing to leave La Real.
"I don't do anything, but when I see reports of it, it makes me uneasy. I haven't cared to listen or wanted to take any action. I'm not sure if I was able to depart, but I've never even thought about it. I've stated it before, and it seems like they won't pay attention if I say it again.
Summer 2023 transfer targets for Barcelona
Retaining Lionel Messi, who is scheduled to depart Paris Saint-Germain at the conclusion of his contract next month, is Barcelona's top transfer goal for the summer.
Sources earlier told 90min that the club is 'leaving no stone unturned' in its pursuit of a deal that complies with La Liga financial rules. Javier Tebas, the president of La Liga, has already forewarned Barcelona in this regard that they must "take many financial measures."
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