Arsenal’s chase for Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi seems to be going smoothly. But the Gunners are yet vulnerable to losing out on the much-sought Spaniard. There have been extensive reports indicating that Zubimendi has chosen Arsenal as his desired club. However, Real Madrid’s persistence in pursuing the midfielder makes things far from over. The Gunners need to keep their eyes peeled as they look to seal what would prove to be one of their biggest summer window signings.
Mikel Arteta’s team have been long associated with the youthful talent of Zubimendi. He has emerged as one of the most solid and intelligent of LaLiga’s holding midfielders in the last few years. Thomas Partey’s long-term future at the club is in some doubt. Moreover, there is a clear need for a more natural defensive partner for Declan Rice. Zubimendi is the perfect fit for that role.
Insiders around the player indicate that Arsenal’s mission has impressed the 25-year-old. He is said to be prepared to depart from Real Sociedad for a move to the Premier League. The Gunners’ ethos under Arteta, along with their qualification for Champions League football, has only served to further their cause.
Real Madrid Not Out of the Picture Yet
But Arsenal’s optimism has to be moderated by the reality that Real Madrid are also part of the race. The Spanish giants have been said to have identified Zubimendi as a long-term midfield solution as they prepare for a generational shift. With Luka Modrić approaching the end of his career, Los Blancos are keen to incorporate new, dependable talent.
As per reports, Real Madrid have not abandoned the transfer and may make a late move to steal Arsenal’s signing. The club’s reputation and close Spanish connections mean that they are still a force to be reckoned with, especially if things are dragged out with Arsenal.
Zubimendi has been in demand before. Liverpool admired him as the perfect choice to take Fabinho’s place as a holding midfielder last summer. Real Sociedad’s player was apparently assured of an agreement at one point, but Zubimendi decided to remain with the Basque club for another year before making the switch overseas.
This past interest highlights the player’s status as Europe’s most highly rated midfielder. Arsenal’s edge this time is their aggressive style and the coherence of the plan they are presenting—but the history of similarly engaged bidders is a reminder of how rapidly circumstances can shift.
Arsenal Must Avoid Complacency in Final Stages
Although Arsenal seem to be currently at the front of the race, they should not be caught napping. Until the transaction is sealed and Zubimendi is formally confirmed, anything is possible—particularly when a side like Real Madrid is concerned.
The Gunners will have to move with speed to seal the transfer quickly. Not keeping the door ajar for lengthy talks may see Madrid jump in, especially if Zubimendi begins to weigh the temptation of staying in Spain playing for a European giant. Arsenal’s transfer team, headed by Edu and sporting director Andrea Berta, will be under the spotlight to tie up the deal in quick time.
Should Arsenal succeed in bringing Zubimendi to the Emirates, they would be adding a player capable of transforming their midfield. His tactical awareness, passing range, and composure under pressure make him a natural complement to Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard.
But until then, Arsenal supporters need to be patient. As long as Real Madrid stay in the wings, this deal is in doubt. The Gunners can be on top, but they will have to scrap for their neck and neck finish.
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