Bayern Munich jump ahead of Premier League clubs amid talks with Takefusa Kubo but Real Sociedad refuse to sell unless €60m release clause is triggered

Kubo joined Real Sociedad in 2022 and has since been one of the most prolific wingers in La Liga. As per EstadioDeportivo, Bayern have now taken the first concrete step, engaging in direct contact with the 24-year-old winger, thereby jumping ahead of other interested Premier League clubs. Sociedad, though, are not looking to part ways with the Japanese star and will only let him go if his €60m (£50m/$69m) release clause is triggered.

One major complication in Bayern's pursuit of Kubo is the sell-on agreement Sociedad have with Real Madrid, who will get half of any fee the Basque club receive. Also, finding a suitable replacement for new manager Sergio Francisco will prove difficult with the Japan international playing a crucial role for the team.

Kubo and Bayern reportedly also had a direct meeting, but it was more about getting to know the player rather than an out-and-out negotiation.

A deal for Kubo to Bayern still can't be completely written off. Kubo's new agency, Sport360, has a good relationship with sports clubs in Germany thanks to the company's major shareholder, Toni Kroos, which may increase the odds of Kubo moving to Germany.

The immediate focus for the San Sebastian club now shifts to the increasingly uncertain future of Martin Zubimendi. The Spanish midfielder was reportedly in talks to sign for Liverpool last year, before seemingly taking a more concrete step towards joining Arsenal. Yet, Zubimendi has now himself cast significant doubts over any potential transfer to London, with the Spanish international recently confirming he has no clear idea where he will land this summer.

With new management in charge and Erik Bretos appointed as the new sporting director, the La Liga club will undoubtedly be looking to start a fresh chapter with renewed ambition.