Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Martin Zubimendi this summer, but Arsenal have no plans to lose the Spain international after just one season at the Emirates Stadium.
Zubimendi became an important part of Mikel Arteta’s midfield following his move from Real Sociedad last summer, helping Arsenal win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final.
Madrid are now considering another move for the 27-year-old as they assess midfield additions before the transfer window closes.
Football.London reports that Real Madrid are interested in Zubimendi, but Arsenal do not want to sell and Arteta expects him to remain part of his squad this season.
Arsenal set Martin Zubimendi stance
The situation does not currently appear close to developing into a transfer.
Senior figures at Real Madrid are reportedly not fully aligned over whether Zubimendi should be pursued, meaning an offer is far from guaranteed.
Arsenal would also require a significant fee before reconsidering their position.
Reports in Spain claim the Gunners value Zubimendi at around €90million (£77m). That would represent a considerable increase on the fee Arsenal paid Real Sociedad last summer.
There is little reason for Arsenal to actively encourage a sale. Zubimendi remains under a long-term contract and became a regular in Arteta’s midfield during a title-winning campaign.
His position has become more interesting following the arrival of Bruno Guimarães, however.
ReadArsenal highlighted after Sunday’s defeat to Borussia Dortmund how important Arsenal’s established midfielders remain to Arteta’s system. The absence of Zubimendi and Declan Rice was particularly noticeable as Dortmund found space through the centre during the first half.
Guimarães gives Arteta another elite option rather than making Zubimendi expendable.
Arsenal are preparing to defend their Premier League title while again competing deep into Europe, leaving the manager needing greater midfield depth rather than fewer options.
Real Madrid’s interest is therefore worth monitoring, particularly given their previous admiration for Zubimendi.
For now, Arsenal’s position appears considerably clearer than Madrid’s. Arteta wants the midfielder to stay, and it would seemingly take a substantial offer to change that.
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