Real Madrid are on the verge of snatching Martin Zubimendi from Arsenal’s grasp, dealing a significant transfer blow to Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Real Sociedad midfielder was heavily linked with Liverpool last summer, while Manchester City also showed interest. Arsenal appeared to have sealed the deal in January, agreeing on a £51 million move to bring the 26-year-old to North London this summer.
However, fresh reports from Spain now suggest that Los Blancos are closing in on a deal to keep Zubimendi in La Liga, potentially outmaneuvering the Gunners at the final hurdle.
Real Madrid Take Advantage of Transfer Uncertainty
Despite Arsenal’s agreement with Real Sociedad over the fee, Zubimendi’s agent is still entertaining offers.
This has opened the door for Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, who is now pushing to finalize the transfer.
A key factor in Madrid’s pursuit is the potential arrival of Xabi Alonso as manager.
The current Bayer Leverkusen boss is one of the frontrunners to replace Carlo Ancelotti, and his presence at the Santiago Bernabéu could be a huge pull for Zubimendi, who is seen as a perfect tactical fit for Alonso’s system.
Real Madrid Ready to Activate £50.2m Release Clause
Real Madrid are unfazed by Zubimendi’s £50.2 million release clause, with the Spanish giants keen to secure a long-term successor to Luka Modric.
If completed, this would mark another major signing for Real Madrid ahead of the 2025-26 season. The club is also on the verge of signing Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer from Liverpool, further strengthening their squad for the future.
The England international has yet to agree on a contract extension at Anfield, allowing Madrid to swoop in. Having tracked Alexander-Arnold for nearly two years, it now appears that Los Blancos have landed their target.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
Losing out on Zubimendi would be a huge setback for Arsenal, especially as Arteta’s side continues to struggle in their hunt for a top-class No.9.
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has questioned the Gunners’ priorities, urging them to focus on signing Newcastle’s Alexander Isak instead.
“Arsenal fans have been calling for a No.9 for two or three years,” Ferdinand said on Rio Reacts.
“If you can sign Isak, you’ve got to do it. They could win the league with him because he’s phenomenal and gives them something different.”
With Zubimendi potentially heading to Madrid, Arsenal’s summer transfer plans may now shift towards securing a top striker—a move that could prove decisive in their Premier League title ambitions.
