Real Madrid are reportedly launching their ‘final offensive’ to swoop in and hijack Arsenal’s pursuit of Martin Zubimendi, setting the stage for a thrilling summer transfer showdown.
Arsenal, keen to overhaul their midfield, face the impending departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey, both of whom will be out of contract at the end of June. The Gunners have identified Zubimendi, Spain’s midfield maestro, as a prime target to bolster their ranks.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano had previously hinted that Arsenal were closing in on the Real Sociedad star, even delivering his trademark ‘here we go’ confirmation earlier in May. Romano took to X to announce, “Arsenal agree deal to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. Here we go! Zubimendi has verbally agreed to a long-term deal… formal steps must follow soon with Arsenal to trigger the €60m clause. Deadline and formal steps around the €60m clause are key for Zubimendi to Arsenal transfer.”
Yet, Zubimendi himself has thrown a curveball into the mix. In a recent interview with Radio Nacional de España, the midfielder revealed that his future remains uncertain. When asked about the possibility of staying at Sociedad for another season, Zubimendi responded, “Of course, there are options. It’s going to be a long summer, and I don’t know how it will end. Right now, my priority is the national team, and if I have to say something, I will.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Zubimendi posted a beachside photo from San Sebastian amid swirling rumors of an impending Arsenal medical. Addressing the speculation, he quipped, “It’s an example of what surrounds football. I often wake up and read about things I didn’t know I’d done. I uploaded those photos to emphasize that it wasn’t the reality.”
When pressed about a potential move to Real Madrid, Zubimendi remained diplomatic, stating, “I’ve always said Xabi Alonso was my idol. It was lucky to have him coach me in the reserves during a crucial year. But I prefer to focus on the present, as it would be disrespectful to speculate while preparing for a major competition.”
According to Spanish outlet AS, Zubimendi paused his decision on Arsenal’s offer, waiting to see if Real Madrid would make their move. The report suggests that Xabi Alonso, now at the helm of Real Madrid, has expressed a strong desire to bring Zubimendi to the Bernabéu. Madrid’s plan involves negotiating a deal below Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause, potentially offering Real Sociedad a loan deal involving Castilla players in return.
While Arsenal’s wage offer is reportedly higher, Zubimendi is said to be open to a Madrid move, even if it means accepting a lower salary. Real Madrid, convinced that Zubimendi is the best midfield option available, are pulling out all the stops in their ‘final offensive’ to secure his signature.
As the saga unfolds, one thing is certain: the battle for Zubimendi’s services promises to be one of the most captivating narratives of this transfer window. Stay tuned for more updates on this high-stakes race.
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