Manchester United’s interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is ‘really encouraging’, journalist Dean Jones has told GiveMeSport.

The 23-year-old is believed to be on the radar of several top clubs from across the continent and could become the latest addition to join Erik ten Hag’s ongoing revolution at Old Trafford.

Manchester United transfer news – Zubimendi

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have claimed that Ten Hag is an admirer of Zubimendi and that United are continuing to monitor his progress following a strong start to the season.

However, the Spain international is believed to be happy at the Reale Arena, while Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has claimed he ‘wants to stay’ at his boyhood club.

TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey has previously stated that the Red Devils have ‘concrete interest’ in Zubimendi, though, who is believed to have a £56 million release clause written into his contract.

However, United could face stiff competition for the technically gifted ace’s signature as reporter Simon Phillips has informed GMS that both Chelsea and Barcelona are also amongst his potential suitors.

Zubimendi could find himself at the centre of an intense transfer tussle over the next six months or so as his stock continues to rise.

What has Jones said about Zubimendi?

When asked about United’s reported interest in Zubimendi, Jones disclosed that he believes the links are ‘really refreshing’ and suggest ‘genuine scouting reports’ are being made.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

In an interview with GMS, he said: “It's really refreshing that they would have a new name come onto the radar, to be honest.

“And it suggests that there are genuine scouting reports being made and new players being profiled that haven't been on the radar before. So, I think that that's really encouraging.”

Where would Zubimendi fit in?

Ten Hag immediately addressed his midfield options upon his arrival in the red half of Manchester, bringing in Christian Eriksen and Casemiro.

The Dutch tactician also allowed the controversial figure of Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic to depart United on free transfers, while the futures of both Fred and Scott McTominay remain up in the air.

As a result, there is arguably a lack of strength in depth in the middle of the park at the Theatre of Dreams, especially considering Ten Hag prefers players who excel with the ball at their feet.

It’s debatable whether both Fred and McTominay suit Ten Hag’s possession-based style of play, and bringing in someone such as Zubimendi may aid his development of United.