As it stands, the Gunners will most likely once again miss out on the Premier League title. They will look to upgrade their squad in the summer to go one better next season. A defensive midfielder is one of Arteta’s priorities – someone to play in a deeper role alongside Declan Rice. Martin Zubimendi is one player who has been heavily linked to Arsenal since last summer.
The 25-year-old is arguably one of the best in the world in his position. He’s made 45 appearances for Real Sociedad this season. A lot of top clubs are interested in the Spain international. Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona, two of the biggest clubs in the world are interested in Zubimendi’s services.
Arsenal are favourites to sign Zubimendi
The La Liga star certainly won’t come cheap. He has a £51 million release clause in his current contract. Real Sociedad certainly will demand the entire amount.
Barcelona don’t seem to be in the financial position to pay the midfielder’s release clause. On the other hand, Bayern Munich can pay the £51 million, but there are rumors that the German club are not willing to match his valuation. This leaves Arsenal as clear favourites at this stage to sign Martin Zubimendi.
Moreover, it is claimed that the Spaniard is ‘seduced by the Premier League’. This gives the Gunners a clear ‘advantage’ over Bayern and Barca.
In the last summer transfer window, the 25-year-old snubbed a move to the Emirates as he wanted to play in the Champions League with Sociedad. However, they haven’t secured qualification into the UCL for next season. This makes the event of Zubimendi leaving his current club all the more likely.
It will be interesting to see if Arsenal do trigger the release clause of Martin Zubimendi in the coming weeks.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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