Real Sociedad’s president Jokin Aperribay has revealed that Martin Zubimendi’s future will be decided in June. The 26-year-old Spanish midfielder turned down an offer from Liverpool last summer, but now it looks like he is on his way to the Premier League, with Arsenal ready to activate his £51m buyout clause.
Internally at Arsenal, a deal for Zubimendi is all but done, although Real Madrid are still interested in the player – especially in light of their interest in Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso, who previously worked with Zubimendi at Real Sociedad B.
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In an interview with Radio Marca Donostia, Aperribay spoke about Zubimendi’s situation. While he did not reveal details about a possible move to Arsenal, it seems that Real Sociedad have accepted that their star is likely to leave the club after Euro 2024.
“We’ll see what happens. All I’m asking of him now is one last effort to qualify for Europe. Whatever happens, it will be decided in June. There is no point in speculating now on whether he will stay or not. He’s had more opportunities to go, and he wants to make the decision he wants – because he wants more options,” Aperribay said.
When asked if there was any chance that Zubimendi could extend his contract and stay, he replied:
“I don’t remember our last talking point. When I talk to him, it’s more about goals and pushing the best. There is one month left, and we face opponents who can beat us, but we can also beat them all. There are no easy or difficult battles – and Martin is part of that. I don’t know if it’s hard for him to stay. We have not tried to increase the buyout clause. Contracts are not negotiated in this way. It’s more about willingness. If he wants to continue the conversation, it will take five minutes. I don’t know if it’s hard.”
New chapter for Real Sociedad
Last week, Real Sociedad coach Imanol Alguacil announced that he will retire at the end of the season after a tough campaign. The Basque club is now fighting to secure European qualification for next season, which is important for Zubimendi, who wants to play Champions League football.
The club has since announced that B-team coach Sergio Francisco will take over, and it looks like a major overhaul awaits at the Reale Arena this summer, after they crashed out of the Europa League against Manchester United.
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Arsenal in active dialogue – Partey’s future independent
Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi is not believed to be linked to Thomas Partey’s situation, as the club is still in talks with the Ghanaian midfielder’s representatives over a possible contract extension.
With Jorginho expected to leave Arsenal on a free transfer at the end of June, Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his midfield – and he has personally pushed for Zubimendi’s signature, as he is very impressed by his compatriot’s qualities. Zubimendi has also previously been on Manchester City’s radar.
