The white club is already looking for alternatives – Manchester City’s price demands are simply too high. “Pep Guardiola had a rule that players who want to move on should be able to do so without too many obstacles. – In many cases, Manchester City have sold below market price to let go of players who want something else.
It has taken time to reach a deal with Rodri, who from midfield led Spain to a convincing World Cup gold. – Only a backwards goal throughout the tournament tells of a well-organized team. – Pep Guardiola’s rule is said to have continued even after his exit, but there is no indication of a crisis in the relationship with Rodri, despite the fact that it has taken time to put in place extension talks.
Martín Zubimendi, a 27-year-old Spanish midfielder at Arsenal, is becoming increasingly relevant as a Real Madrid signing if they are unable to sign Rodri in the summer transfer window. The opportunity is further fuelled by Arsenal accelerating negotiations for Bruno Guimarães – a move that could change everything for the Basque international.
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Real Madrid’s sports management sees Rodri as the top priority to strengthen the midfield, but has been working for weeks on alternative solutions – in case Manchester City do not release the Ballon d’Or winner. In that context, Martín Zubimendi reappears as one of the hottest names on the list.
Zubimendi back on the radar
Real Madrid’s interest in Martín Zubimendi is nothing new. The Spanish international left Real Sociedad last summer to join Arsenal in a deal worth around €70 million, signing a long-term contract with Mikel Arteta’s side.
In his first season in England, Zubimendi established himself as an important piece in Arsenal’s midfield. But the situation could change if Arsenal land Bruno Guimarães – a transfer that is in an advanced phase of negotiations, despite Newcastle rejecting an initial bid.
The arrival of the Brazilian would increase competition in a midfield where Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard are already wreaking havoc – a situation Real Madrid are following closely, hoping that a market opportunity would open up.
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Rodri still first choice
Although Zubimendi is a solid option, Real Madrid’s plan is still clear: Rodri is at the top of his wish list. The Manchester City profile is a top priority in the sporting planning due to his experience, leadership and familiarity with Spanish football.
But the transition presents significant financial challenges. The latest information suggests large differences in the clubs’ valuation of the player – prompting Real Madrid to consider alternatives if negotiations do not move forward by the deadline.
In this picture, Zubimendi fits perfectly into the club’s style of play – and his situation can be influenced by Arsenal’s own dispositions.
Due to only a year left on his deal with Manchester City, Transfermarkt believes that Rodri is worth €55 million, down from €130 million. Real Madrid are “in agreement” with Transfermarkt, while the sky blues believe that the World Cup gold proves he is worth much, much more.
Bruno Guimarães could trigger the domino effect
The possible arrival of Bruno Guimarães at the Emirates Stadium could be the trigger. Arsenal are negotiating with Newcastle for a transfer of around £80 million, but a final deal is yet to be finalised.
If the signing becomes a reality, Arsenal will have a midfield apparatus with several top options – potentially easing negotiations for Martín Zubimendi, if the player himself feels that his playing time is reduced.
The coming weeks will be crucial. While Real Madrid keep the Rodri option open, the progress of the Bruno Guimarães negotiations will determine whether Martín Zubimendi goes from being a plan B to becoming Real Madrid’s priority before the transfer window closes.
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