Xabi Alonso wanted to sign Martin Zubimendi for Real Madrid and even presented the idea to their board, but they decided against it.
Jorge C. Picon reports for Relevo that incoming Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso was very keen to sign Martin Zubimendi for his new side, and he put forward the idea during meetings with Madrid officials.
In response, the club explained that whilst they would consider his input on transfers, the final decision rests with them.
Ultimately, that meant they didn’t pursue the signing, as the club hierarchy felt it wasn’t necessary to bring in another midfielder. Real Sociedad’s Zubimendi is instead on the verge of joining Arsenal.
On Saturday, Fabrizio Romano reported that Arsenal had verbally agreed a deal with Zubimendi for a long-term contract. Zubimendi is set to become the Gunners’ first signing of the summer, with only the formalities of his transfer remaining.
The local media in Sociedad have previously shot down claims of a done deal for Arsenal to sign Zubimendi, but Mikel Recalde of Noticias de Gipuzkoa finally conceded that “the soap opera is over” and the midfielder will play in north London next season.
Recalde added that Arsenal will pay at least the €60m (£50.8m) of Zubimendi’s release clause, but they may have negotiated a slightly higher fee in return for favourable payment terms.
Zubimendi is a key player for club and country at the moment, making 45 appearances for Real Sociedad this season and starting six of Spain’s last eight matches.
The 26-year-old 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.