Martin Zubimendi is expected to join Arsenal this summer despite interest from Real Madrid, with the Gunners willing to pay his release clause.
Spanish outlet AS reports that although Real Madrid are interested in Martin Zubimendi, there are a couple of reasons the midfielder is likely to end up elsewhere.
For a start, Real have a competing interest in Vitinha of PSG. That deal looks difficult, but if it went ahead it would likely end their interest in Zubimendi.
But more importantly, AS claim Arsenal are very advanced with a deal for Zubimendi, and the Gunners are willing to pay the player’s buyout clause. As it stands, Zubimendi is expected to join former club teammate Mikel Merino in north London.
Real Madrid reportedly know they can’t match the figures on offer from the Premier League, but they’re making sure to be well positioned if things don’t work out with Zubimendi’s proposed move to England.
Reports from Spain have repeatedly suggested that Zubimendi won’t make a final decision on his future until the summer.
Back in England, there were claims in January that Arsenal had all but completed a deal, with Mikel Arteta courting the midfielder for over a year and talks at an advanced stage. It remains to be seen whether that’s true.
Zubimendi is a key player for club and country at the moment, making 38 appearances for Real Sociedad this season and starting six of Spain’s last eight matches.
The midfielder was also a regular in the Spain squad as they won Euro 2024, making four appearances including 45 vital minutes to win the final following the injury to Rodri.