Manchester United are ready to meet the buyout clause of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

The Spain international has emerged as a top January target for United, says AS.

And it's suggested United are willing to pay the €60m buyout clause in Zubimendi's contract.

Zubimendi had been identified by Barcelona as an eventual successor for Sergi Busquets, who is set to leave at the end of this season.

The La Real ace was the favoured option for Xavi, though any move appeared off after he penned a new deal a fortnight ago to 2027.

However, it's been claimed a Barca move remains on as it has been revealed Zubimendi's new deal still carries the original €60m buyout clause.