Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba's chances of securing a January exit to Real Madrid have been dented by the emergence of Fede Valverde.
The 21-year-old Uruguayan midfielder has been a stand-out performer for Los Blancos this season having returned from a season-long loan spell with Deportivo La Coruna.
Valverde has emerged as their main man in midfield after a string of injuries early in the season - and Marca report Zidane is now confident they are better off without Pogba.
Zidane was determined to land Pogba in the summer but United were unwilling to sell for less than their huge asking price, forcing his hand to give Valverde a chance.
The success of the youngster means they are unlikely to splash the cash on Pogba in January.
The United star previously declaring his "dream" to play under Zidane in the Spanish capital but the chances of it being made a reality are looking under serious threat.
Zidane praised Valverde after his role in a 4-2 win over Granada at the weekend.
"It's true that I'm happy for him," Zidane said. "He's very good and he's always shown that. He's growing.
"He always moves forward, he wants the ball and he's been key for two goals [against Granada]."
He has impressed with his flexibility, operating both as a defensive midfielder or box-to-box player, and Valverde declared he feels "comfortable anywhere".
"I feel comfortable anywhere in midfield," Valverde told the Uruguayan media.
"Zidane is playing me as a No.5 or a No.8, I feel comfortable, I'm confident when it comes to playing, hungry to arrive in the [opposition] box.
"He's asking me to give my best, which I am in training and it helps a lot when a coach gives you this trust."
