Takefusa Kubo’s future at Real Sociedad is more uncertain than ever, and all indications are that the Japanese player will leave Anoeta this summer.
The Japanese striker, one of the blue and white club’s greatest assets, has shown clear signs of dissatisfaction with the team’s sporting situation, and according to reports, he has recently changed representative agencies to prepare for exit and negotiate with new destinations.
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Cycle change and doubts about the project
Despite having a contract until 2029, Kubo has not hidden his concern about the change in Real Sociedad’s current situation, especially after the confirmed departure of Imanol Alguacil and the uncertainty surrounding his new project. The 53-year-old manager has held a number of roles at the club before he was promoted from the B team in December 2018 and took over the manager’s chair.
The Japanese player has been cautious in his statements, but has left the door open for a transfer:
“At the moment I have a contract and my idea is to stay at Real Sociedad and for Real Sociedad to improve, but just like the manager, you never know. Right now I have a contract and I’m still at Sociedad.”
Kubo wants an ambitious project, with European ambitions and continuity in his style of play, and fears that the arrival of a new manager will mean a setback in his career.
Market movements and new representative
Kubo’s entourage have intensified contact with top clubs, and the recent decision to change representative agency to Sport360 is a clear sign that the player wants to facilitate his departure from San Sebastián. His name has already been linked with Premier League teams such as Liverpool and Tottenham, as well as Atlético Madrid, who are considering signing him to bolster Simeone’s attack.
Clause, rights and Real Madrid’s role
Real Sociedad know that it will be difficult to keep Kubo if a strong offer comes in. His release clause is for €60 million, and Real Madrid, which retains 50% of his financial rights, would benefit from any sale. The Whites also have a preference to match any offer, although the player’s desire is to remain in a top league in Europe and is not considering a move to Saudi Arabia for the time being, there is also a desert football bid on the table.
Real Sociedad, who will have to restructure their squad following Imanol’s departure and the possible exit of other key players, see Kubo’s sale as an opportunity to earn a record sum. The footballer himself has made it clear that he will only stay if the new project is ambitious and keeps the line from the last few years.
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