‘World class’ player makes major contract decision after £43m Manchester United interest

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Manchester United have been eyeing Real Sociedad star Takefusa Kubo but have now seen him sign a new contract to stay in La Liga.

Reports in December suggested that United had been scouting Takefusa Kubo in action for Real Sociedad ahead of a potential move.

Antony had been struggling on the right flank and Kubo was allegedly on the radar for a potential £43million move.

The Japanese wide man has been shining in Spain and whilst United’s interest certainly made sense, a deal seemingly won’t be happening…

Manchester United target Takefusa Kubo signs new contract

Real Sociedad have today confirmed that Kubo has signed a new contract with the club and will be staying until the summer of 2029.

Release clauses are mandatory in Spanish football but it’s unclear just how much Sociedad will be entitled to with Kubo’s new deal.

The value will certainly be more than £43million though and may well rule out a summer move to Old Trafford.

Former Real Madrid talent Kubo has hit six goals and three assists in 19 games this season and is starting to fulfil the potential he showed as a teenager.

Hailed as a ‘world class’ player by Barcelona boss Xavi, Kubo has the world at his feet and will now continue his development with Real Sociedad rather than jump to United in the summer.

Kubo contract good news for Antony

Alejandro Garnacho is currently impressing down the right flank and his displays may have left United considering holding off signing another right-sided player anyway.

Still, a move for Kubo seemingly won’t be happening now and that is a boost for Antony, who could have been primed for the chopping block if Kubo had arrived.

The Brazilian has the trust of Erik ten Hag but simply hasn’t shown anywhere near enough in the Premier League and the interest in Kubo – a right-sided, left-footed player just like Antony – left his future unclear.

Antony will be relived that a summer move for Kubo now seems to be off the table but he must now use that reprieve to really kick on and prove that United don’t need to follow Kubo moving forward.

That will be tough with Garnacho shining but Antony must be ready to take his chance when it comes – or links to more wingers will emerge in the near future.