Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is reportedly open to moving to the Premier League this summer despite interest from FC Barcelona and a rejected approach this January to sign for Arsenal.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the 23-year-old La Liga maestro prefers a move to England this year despite the Premier League leaders Arsenal having an approach turned down by Sociedad for the midfielder, with Zubimendi having a release clause worth €60m (£53m).
Whilst Arsenal are keen to sign a midfielder this January and Zubimendi would suit the profile of what Mikel Arteta is looking for, it seems like the north London side are not willing to match Sociedad’s asking price for the Spanish international.
As reported by Cadena Ser, Arsenal have recently had an enquiry rejected from the Basque side for Zubimendi, meaning that a move in the summer is now on the cards for the north London side, where a Premier League title could secure the transfer of the Sociedad star.
Indeed, midfield is expected to be an area of the pitch that will see some major additions in the summer with Arsenal looking to spend big on long-term replacements for Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka. And Zubimendi could be perfect for one of these roles, alongside another signing.
A defensive midfielder who was coached and is now likened to Xabi Alonso, Zubimendi has impressed greatly for Sociedad this season and has been a big reason behind the La Liga side’s push for a UEFA Champions League spot. And for Arsenal, the 23-year-old has all the qualities to flourish in north London.
Arsenal signing Zubimendi in the summer would be an incredible move
Arsenal’s midfield trio has been nothing short of perfect this season, with Xhaka flourishing in his new role with Partey yet to suffer a major injury as of writing. Yet given their ages, signing a replacement in the summer wouldn’t be a bad move at all for the Gunners, and Zubimendi is ideal.
As mentioned, Zubimendi has been key to Sociedad’s success this season in the league. And with the midfielder now keen to sign for a Premier League side, Arsenal makes plenty of sense for the 23-year-old, who could replace either Partey or Xhaka in the starting XI for many years to come.
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