Arsenal have been long-time admirers of Martin Zubimendi, but in recent months, Real Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to sign the Real Sociedad midfielder.
Even though they have signed Mikel Merino, Mikel Arteta has been eyeing Zubimendi as a long-term replacement for Thomas Partey, and the Gunners have been linked with the Spanish international for over a year. However, in the previous few months, Madrid have taken the lead in the race, primarily because Zubimendi prefers to stay in La Liga.
The 26-year-old currently earns an annual salary of around €3 million, and Arsenal are reportedly offering him a four-year contract worth €6 million per year. The Gunners are hoping this lucrative offer will be enough to tempt him to move to England.
Can Arsenal Beat Real Madrid to Martin Zubimendi?
Last summer, Liverpool attempted to sign Zubimendi, but he chose to stay at Real Sociedad to continue his development. Now, he appears ready for a new challenge, and while Arsenal are trying to lure him with a significant salary increase, Madrid have not given up hope of securing the midfielder.
With Toni Kroos already gone and Luka Modrić set to leave this summer, Carlo Ancelotti needs a reliable long-term replacement in central/defensive midfield. And, 26-year-old Martin Zubimendi fits the profile perfectly.
Having made 220 appearances for Real Sociedad, Zubimendi has been one of La Liga’s most consistent performers. This season, he has an average rating of 7.23 in 23 league games, winning 60% of his duels, making 101 recoveries, and registering 31 interceptions. Despite being a defensive midfielder, he has also made two goal contributions.
For Arsenal, Zubimendi would be the ideal successor to Partey however, as long as Real Madrid remain interested, the Gunners face an uphill battle. The allure of playing at the Santiago Bernabéu is hard to resist, and unless Arsenal can offer something extraordinary, convincing Zubimendi to move to North London will be a challenge.
If Florentino Pérez decides to match Arsenal’s salary offer, there is little to no doubt that Martin Zubimendi will choose Madrid over the Gunners. Arsenal’s best hope lies in securing a major trophy this season to enhance their appeal, but even then, Madrid are likely to have the upper hand.
