Martin Zubimendi could be on his way away from Arsenal as early as January. Now, as many as seven major European clubs have been notified that the Spaniard is considering a transfer – in the midst of an increasingly tough battle for places in Arteta’s midfield.
The situation surrounding Martin Zubimendi has taken a new turn. According to recent reports, the Arsenal midfielder has reportedly decided to consider a possible transfer – and that has caused clubs to queue up.
Bayern Munich circle in Martin Ødegaard as Arsenal fight to secure captain’s future
We have previously written about Zubimendi’s challenges this season, and our sources have made it clear that Arsenal do not want to let go of the Spanish international mid-season. However, the longer the 27-year-old sits out of the starting eleven, the more speculation there will naturally become.
Seven clubs on duty
The latest report comes from TEAMtalk, which claims that as many as seven clubs are closely monitoring the situation. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea and Liverpool are all mentioned as interested parties.
Most interestingly, however, the clubs have reportedly been made aware of Zubimendi’s availability – which could indicate that Arsenal’s attitude has also changed.
Arsenal reject – for now
For now, however, the message from the Arsenal camp is clear: the Gunners still see Zubimendi as a key piece in their plans for this season.
At the same time, it’s hard to ignore the fact that Mikel Arteta doesn’t have room for him right now. Myles Lewis-Skelly took over the role alongside Declan Rice towards the end of last season, and Bruno Guimaraes’ arrival from Newcastle in the summer has made the competition even tougher.
Too good for the bench – risky to lose
Zubimendi is undoubtedly good enough to start for several other top clubs. The former Real Sociedad player impressed greatly in the first half of last season, but experienced a marked dip in form and looked both tired and less confident as the season progressed.
Letting him go could still be risky. Arteta is undoubtedly aware that injuries and suspensions will come sooner or later – and then he will depend on team players like Zubimendi.
The question is whether the Spaniard himself has the patience to wait for the chance.
Read on F7: The world’s new largest stadium costs £28 billion
