Martin Zubimendi considering snubbing move to Arsenal and joining UEFA Champions League rivals for 2 key reasons: Reports
Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi is considering rejecting Arsenal in favor of a move to Real Madrid this summer, according to Spanish outlet AS (via METRO). Zubimendi would reportedly prefer to remain in Spain and is interested in playing under Xabi Alonso for Los Blancos.
Martin Zubimendi joined Real Sociedad in 2011, making his senior debut at the club in 2019. The 26-year-old has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in LaLiga in recent seasons and has made 236 appearances across all competitions for the Spanish outfit.
Zubimendi opted to reject Liverpool last summer despite reportedly being in advanced talks to join the Reds. Despite opting to remain with Sociedad for another season, Arsenal were believed to be the frontrunners for his signature after starting talks earlier this year.
The Spain international currently has a reported release clause of £51 million. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta remains keen on signing Zubimendi to bolster his squad, following the departure of Jorginho.
However, Real Madrid could potentially enter the transfer race and hijack the Gunners' deal. Xabi Alonso has reportedly identified Martin Zubimendi as his number one target this summer, with the pair previously having worked together at Real Sociedad B.
If Zubimendi formally rejects a move to Arsenal, Los Blancos would reportedly attempt to lower his £51 million release clause ahead of a possible move.
"I’ve always said that he was my idol" - Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi provides verdict on Xabi Alonso amid Real Madrid transfer links
Despite reportedly verbally agreeing to join Arsenal earlier this year, Martin Zubimendi recently admitted Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso was his idol. He also claimed that he had yet to decide on his next club, while having multiple options to consider.
From the aforementioned source, Zubimendi told Radio Nacional:
"Of course there are options, but it’s true that it looks like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it’s going to end. Right now, thinking about it isn’t my priority. I’m here with the national team, which is already quite demanding, and if I have to say something, then I will."
He added:
"I’ve always said that he was my idol and that for me it was a stroke of luck that he was able to coach me in the reserve team in a very important year. [But] I don’t like to talk about those hypotheses, I like to talk about the present. I think it would be disrespectful to answer a question [about a Madrid move] while I’m in the national team, and facing such an important competition."
Zubimendi is expected to feature for Spain in their UEFA Nations League final clash against Portugal on Sunday (June 8).
