Arsenal are eyeing a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi who rejected Liverpool in the summer after a transfer saga played out in Arne Slot’s first weeks in charge
Arsenal are hoping to raid Real Sociedad for the second summer in succession by landing Martin Zubimendi at the end of the season.
The Gunners signed Mikel Merino from the Basque side in the summer to strengthen their midfield, and have identified his international teammate as the perfect fit to provide qualities that Mikel Arteta still lacks in his side. The north Londonders are monitoring Zubimendi and believe they could prove the most suitable destination for the Spain star.
The 25-year-old midfield star looked to set to be Arne Slot’s first Liverpool signing in the last transfer window, but U-turned to remain with Sociedad. Boyhood fan Zubimendi chose to remain with his hometown team despite seeing an agreement worth £50million in place, after La Real had already seen Merino and Robin Le Normand depart.
It has been suggested that Zubimendi did not want to leave the club in an even more difficult situation. The decision to stay appears to have arrived with the condition that he will be allowed to leave for the right offer in the future.
Reports suggest Arsenal see Zubimendi as an ideal option as a No. 6 and hope to take advantage of their good relationship with Real Sociedad. Merino also offers a link to help Zubimendi settle should they be successful in a bid.
“It is true that there was a lot of noise,” Zubimendi said of turning down Liverpool’s interest, earlier this season. “I went through uncomfortable moments. The best thing for me was to stay here, and I was happy and at peace.
“Of course, I don’t regret it. I can’t think that after four or five games at the start of the season. I made my decision from within. I thought it was the best thing to do.”
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente believes that Zubimendi is already the second best midfielder in the world, after injured Manchester City star Rodri. Zubimendi has also been linked with a move to the Premier League champions as they attempt to win another title despite Rodri being ruled out.
“I’ve publicly stated that, for me, Martin is the second-best player in the world [behind Rodri],” De La Fuente said. “We are incredibly lucky to have these two – who I consider the best players in the world. But we also have other fantastic players who’ve been here and are with us now – another fantastic player.”
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