Manchester City and Real Madrid have crossed paths several times in Europe in recent years. The Spanish giants won the Champions League in 2022 while Pep Guardiola's side did so last year. It would not be a surprise if both end up competing for the trophy with the big ears this time around as well.
It is not just on the pitch that two of Europe's best clubs might find themselves competing though. The same could happen over transfers as well.
One of the best players in Spain this season has been Takefusa Kubo. The Japanese international has found his feet since leaving Real Madrid for Real Sociedad. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has scored 6 goals and provided 3 assists in 18 La Liga appearances in this campaign so far.
That kind of form seems to have caught the eye of big clubs around Europe. As reported by Fichajes, Manchester City have shown interest in Kubo and could be closely monitoring the Real Sociedad player in the upcoming transfer windows.
Manchester City want to sign €60 million Real Madrid target
There is believed to be a €60 million release clause in Kubo's contract with Real Sociedad. But Real Madrid are believed to have a 50% sell-on clause for the player, meaning they could sign him for a €30 million transfer fee if they wanted.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Kubo. He has been linked with other clubs as well, like Manchester United.
Thus, Kubo is not expected to have a lack of options if he did choose to leave Real Sociedad in the summer. He does seem settled there but the time might be right to take the next step in his career. Could that be a return to Real Madrid, a move to Manchester City or somewhere else?