Arsenal Eyeing €100m Atletico Madrid Star to Strengthen Midfield | OneFootball

Arsenal Eyeing Midfield Reinforcements: Focus on Barrios and Zubimendi

Arsenal’s pursuit of a midfield reinforcement has gained significant momentum, with Mikel Arteta’s side reportedly setting their sights on two exciting options: Atlético Madrid’s 21-year-old sensation, Pablo

Barrios, and Real Sociedad’s established star, Martin Zubimendi. Both players represent different aspects of Arteta’s midfield ambitions, with one fitting the profile of a long-term investment and the other offering immediate depth and tactical flexibility.

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Barrios: A High-Stakes Investment

The news that Arsenal are targeting Barrios comes as no surprise given his impressive performances in La Liga this season. Having made 27 appearances across all competitions for Atlético Madrid, Barrios has rapidly become one of the most highly-rated young midfielders in Europe. Known for his solid defensive capabilities and technical prowess, the 21-year-old is being linked with several top clubs, including Chelsea, who are also in the race for his signature.

Reports from Fichajes suggest that Arsenal are so keen on strengthening their midfield that they are ready to trigger Barrios’ €100m release clause. This willingness to pay such a hefty fee is particularly notable, considering that his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) is currently set at just €56.5m. However, Arsenal’s determination to secure a top-tier midfielder who can offer both defensive solidity and creative spark has led them to consider meeting the release clause, which could prove to be a significant financial investment.

Photo: IMAGO

Arsenal’s decision to enter the bidding war for Barrios, despite his contract running until 2028, signals their intent to fortify the midfield for both the present and future. His ability to operate effectively as both a defensive and central midfielder fits Arteta’s tactical setup, especially considering the Gunners’ growing ambitions in Europe and the Premier League.

Zubimendi: Arsenal’s Priority Signing

While Barrios is being eyed as a possible alternative, Arsenal’s primary focus remains on signing Martin Zubimendi. The 26-year-old, who has been closely associated with the club over the past year, is expected to be available for €60m, thanks to a release clause in his Real Sociedad contract. Zubimendi’s profile aligns with Arteta’s need for a reliable, experienced midfielder who can dictate play and provide leadership at the base of the midfield.

Arsenal had previously failed to secure Zubimendi’s services last summer, with Liverpool also in the running. However, Real Sociedad’s resolve to keep the Spanish international proved too strong at the time. With Zubimendi remaining at Real Sociedad for the current campaign, Arsenal’s chances of landing the player appear more favourable, especially given their heightened interest and the midfielder’s continued growth in La Liga.

Despite competition from top clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal seem to be leading the race for Zubimendi’s signature, as Arteta aims to find a long-term replacement for Jorginho, who has struggled to establish himself as a consistent force in the team. Zubimendi’s ability to control games and provide a steady presence in the midfield makes him a valuable addition to the squad, particularly as Arsenal continue their push for domestic and European glory.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategic Signings to Strengthen the Midfield

With both Barrios and Zubimendi on Arsenal’s radar, it’s clear that Arteta and the club’s hierarchy are prioritising the strengthening of their midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 season. The Gunners have shown their commitment to building a squad capable of challenging for top honours by looking at players who can provide both defensive security and offensive creativity.

While Barrios represents a longer-term investment with potential for development, Zubimendi offers the immediate experience and versatility that Arsenal need to sustain their momentum. If Arsenal can secure either (or both) of these players, it will be a major step towards solidifying their midfield for the coming years.

Where Does This Leave Arsenal?

Arsenal’s midfield plans could have significant implications for their future success. Both Barrios and Zubimendi would bring a different set of skills to the squad, offering Arteta the flexibility to adjust his tactics depending on the opposition. The competition for both players, however, will be fierce, and Arsenal will need to act quickly if they wish to secure their targets ahead of rival clubs.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Arsenal to see how they manoeuvre in the market. With key players like Jorginho potentially departing, the Gunners must ensure they strengthen the engine room to maintain their title challenge both domestically and in Europe.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Arsenal fans are accustomed to seeing our club linked with some of the best talents in Europe, and the news about Barrios and Zubimendi only fuels the anticipation. Both players represent exactly what we need to take our midfield to the next level.

Zubimendi is the type of player who could step in immediately and make an impact. He’s shown his worth in La Liga, demonstrating both defensive reliability and the ability to control the tempo of a game. His familiarity with the demands of top-flight football makes him a perfect fit for Arteta’s system. If Arsenal can secure his signature, it would be a statement of intent. We all know how important it is to have a midfield general who can not only protect the back four but also transition the play and link up with our attackers. Zubimendi is that player, and at €60m, he represents a smart move financially.

On the other hand, Barrios is an exciting prospect for the future. His raw talent and versatility are undeniable, and paying his €100m release clause would show that Arsenal are serious about competing with Europe’s elite. It’s a big investment, but one that could pay off in spades. His potential, combined with his defensive capabilities, would offer Arteta more tactical flexibility, something we’ve seen the manager embrace this season.

Both these players would strengthen Arsenal’s midfield significantly, and if we manage to land either, it will go a long way in ensuring we maintain our challenge at the top for years to come.