As the summer transfer window heats up, reports suggest Real Madrid are preparing to launch a late bid to hijack Arsenal’s £51 million move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi. The 25-year-old Spanish international has been on Arsenal’s radar for over a year, with Mikel Arteta identifying him as a long-term solution for the club’s midfield, but Real Madrid’s sudden interest could throw a wrench into Arsenal’s carefully laid plans.
Arsenal’s Long-standing Interest
Arsenal’s pursuit of Martín Zubimendi has been persistent. Mikel Arteta, a compatriot of Zubimendi and a strong admirer of technically gifted midfielders, reportedly sees the Sociedad star as a natural successor to Thomas Partey. With Partey’s fitness concerns mounting and Granit Xhaka having already departed, Arsenal’s midfield rebuild is crucial. Despite Declan Rice’s arrival in 2023, the club is looking for a more specialist holding midfielder—someone composed in possession and tactically disciplined without the ball.
Zubimendi fits that profile. A graduate of Real Sociedad’s academy, he has matured into one of La Liga’s most consistent and intelligent midfielders. His passing accuracy, ability to read the game, and composure under pressure have drawn comparisons to former Spain stalwart Sergio Busquets. Arsenal reportedly identified him as a top target early in the window and were believed to be in advanced talks with Sociedad, willing to meet his £51 million release clause.
Real Madrid’s Surprise Move
However, according to sources close to the Spanish giants, Real Madrid have now entered the fray. Manager Carlo Ancelotti and the club’s hierarchy view Zubimendi as a long-term option to complement or eventually succeed Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga. With Luka Modrić nearing retirement and Toni Kroos having already announced he will hang up his boots after Euro 2024, the Madrid midfield is being reshaped for the next decade.
Madrid’s decision to target Zubimendi is strategic. Despite already boasting depth in midfield, the club values Spanish players who fit their tactical system and uphold the club’s identity. Zubimendi’s consistent performances in La Liga and for the national team have not gone unnoticed, and Madrid are reportedly prepared to trigger his release clause to keep him in Spain and away from the Premier League.
Why Zubimendi is in High Demand
Zubimendi is not the type of midfielder who dominates highlight reels, but he is a manager’s dream. A quintessential pivot, he offers positional discipline, exceptional spatial awareness, and a range of passing that keeps teams ticking. His defensive positioning and ability to break up opposition attacks are underpinned by intelligence rather than physicality, making him a unique asset in the modern game.
Moreover, his loyalty to Real Sociedad and desire to continue developing in a familiar system made Arsenal’s early progress seem significant. Zubimendi had previously rejected moves to clubs outside of Spain, citing comfort and continuity. However, Real Madrid’s interest changes the equation. A move to the Santiago Bernabéu would allow him to stay in La Liga, compete for the biggest trophies, and work with some of the world’s best young talents.
Arsenal’s Next Steps
Arsenal now face a crucial few weeks. If Real Madrid are serious about triggering the release clause, Arsenal must act decisively. The club may attempt to persuade Zubimendi by offering guaranteed playing time, a central role in their project, and the chance to work under Arteta—a coach known for developing technically gifted players.
There’s also the Premier League factor. While La Liga may offer familiarity, the Premier League promises global exposure and financial rewards. Arsenal’s return to Champions League football and their clear upward trajectory under Arteta could be persuasive elements in their pitch.
Should Arsenal miss out on Zubimendi, they will need to pivot quickly. Alternatives like Joao Neves (Benfica), Amadou Onana (Everton), and even Moisés Caicedo—should Chelsea’s situation change—could be considered, but none possess the exact blend of tactical intelligence and La Liga pedigree that Zubimendi offers.
Conclusion
Martín Zubimendi has emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted midfielders this summer, and Arsenal’s efforts to bring him to North London now face a significant challenge from Real Madrid. With both clubs ready to meet the £51 million release clause, the decision may ultimately rest with the player himself. Will he opt for the bright lights of the Premier League and a starring role at the Emirates, or will the allure of staying in Spain and wearing the white of Madrid prove too tempting to resist?
One thing is clear: Zubimendi’s future could shape the midfield dynamics of two of Europe
’s elite clubs for years to come.
