Arsenal scouts were present at the Champions League clash between Benfica and Real Sociedad, amid links to a couple of Sociedad stars.

AFTV sources report that Arsenal had scouts in place for Real Sociedad’s 1-0 win over Benfica on Tuesday, while the Gunners were busy taking on Sevilla in Spain.

Martin Zubimendi and Takefusa Kubo reportedly stood out, amid rumours on social media that Arsenal have a genuine interest in the Sociedad pair.

The summer is viewed as a more realistic option for the potential transfers than January, however.

Arsenal have gone some way to building a relationship with Real Sociedad through the loan of Kieran Tierney over the summer.

The left-back had made a good start for the Spanish side, providing a particularly impressive assist in a match in late September.

But Tierney is currently sidelined with an injury, with no specific date given for his comeback yet.

All the same, Arsenal and Real Sociedad should have a positive understand behind the scenes at the moment, which could help in any potential negotiations.

This isn’t the first time either Zubimendi or Kubo have been linked with Arsenal.

Reports have named Zubimendi as an Arsenal target throughout 2023, whilst there was talk of Mikel Arteta interest in Kubo in September.

A potential deal for either player is still evidently in the early stages, so it’s one to watch over the coming months.