Manchester United have set their sights on Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal, with Football Transfers reporting that the forward is firmly on the club’s shortlist for the summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old, widely regarded as one of La Liga’s brightest and most versatile attackers, has been monitored by United for several months, with insiders describing the interest as “serious”.
Oyarzabal’s current contract includes a €75 million release clause, and United are aware they may have to meet this amount if Real Sociedad refuse to negotiate a lower fee.
Oyarzabal impressed for Sociedad in La Liga
The Spain international has been a mainstay at La Real for nearly a decade, developing into one of the league’s most reliable leaders, with a consistent record of goals, assists and chance creation.
This season, he continued to impress with his work rate, positional intelligence and technical ability, once again ranking among La Liga’s most influential wide forwards.
Oyarzabal’s tactical flexibility allows him to play multiple roles, including left winger, attacking midfielder and centre-forward.
Oyarzabal’s stats this season
| competition | Appearance | the goal | assist | minutes |
| league | 17 | 6 | 3 | 1,499 |
| king’s cup | 2 | 0 | 0 | 132 |
| total | 19 | 6 | 3 | 1,631 |
This adaptability makes him an ideal fit for a team that continues to lack balance, identity and depth in the attacking third.
Man United are planning a major rebuild under new football leadership, with a permanent manager set to be appointed in the summer, so players who can play multiple roles at a high level are seen as a priority.
Manchester United expected to move in the summer
Sources close to the club say January spending has been deliberately kept to a minimum following the departure of Ruben Amorim and the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim manager, with United only planning to make transfers in the summer.
The club wants to properly evaluate the team before spending big money, but Oyarzabal’s name remains near the top of the list.
United have spent heavily over the period so far and after a quiet January, it is expected that the Red Devils will invest heavily again to solve long-standing problems up front.
All signs point to the Premier League giants preparing a big bid in the summer, although United may have to act boldly as competition is expected from clubs in Spain and England.
The midfielder wants to move to Man United. Contact with his agent has already been established
