Potential blow for Man City & Liverpool as midfield target Martin Zubimendi suffers 'serious' injury with Real Sociedad ahead of January transfer window

Zubimendi was a major target for Liverpool in the summer as the Reds looked to bring in a defensive midfielder, however, the Spain star decided to stay put with his boyhood club. Manchester City have joined the race to sign the Spaniard in January as they look to replace the injured Rodri amid their inconsistent form.

However, Zubimendi has now picked up what has been described as a serious injury while playing with Real Sociedad in their 3-0 win against Leganes. After suffering a blow to his back, Zubimendi was in clear pain, he signalled to the bench and was quickly replaced by Jon Ander Olasagasti. La Real boss Imanol Alguacil has now opened up on his back injury.

Speaking to the media, Alguacil said: "Zubimendi and Aihen Munoz asked me to change them, and it seems serious."

However, it is reported byRelevothat Zubimendi will only miss two to three weeks of action and return for Real Sociedad's last two league games of the calendar year. As such, it is possible that Liverpool and Manchester City's plans are not hindered.