Arsenal target major midfield revamp with two key signings | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Midfield Overhaul: Zubimendi and Guimarães on the Radar

Arsenal are plotting a significant summer shake-up as they aim to bridge the gap between contenders and champions. With midfield reinforcements high on the agenda, reports from AS suggest that the Gunners are targeting Martín Zubimendi and Bruno Guimarães to elevate their squad to title-winning status.

Arteta’s Long-Standing Interest in Zubimendi

Mikel Arteta has been an admirer of Martín Zubimendi for some time, with the Real Sociedad midfielder seen as an ideal fit for Arsenal’s possession-based system. The 25-year-old Spaniard has been identified as a priority signing, with the club already holding discussions with his representatives.

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The major hurdle remains his €60 million release clause, but Arsenal are reportedly seeking a compromise with Real Sociedad. Given Zubimendi’s importance to the La Liga side, negotiations may not be straightforward, though Arsenal’s intent is clear.

Arteta has been selective in his transfer requests, making Zubimendi’s case all the more intriguing. AS states, he is “one of the few players Arteta has personally requested the club to push for.”

Guimarães: The Ambitious Move from Newcastle

While Zubimendi appears to be progressing, Arsenal’s pursuit of Bruno Guimarães is at an earlier stage. The Brazilian has been outstanding for Newcastle United, and Andrea Berta—Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director—is reportedly eager to bring him to the Emirates.

Berta, who had previously tried to sign Guimarães during his time at Atlético Madrid, remains a huge admirer. AS reports: “Berta has attempted to sign him three times before, from his breakthrough at Audax to his rise in Europe with Lyon.”

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Securing the Brazilian would be far from simple. Guimarães has settled well in Newcastle, considering the city his “second home.” However, the Magpies are said to have agreed that he could leave for £60 million (€71 million) if they fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

With Arsenal’s strong financial backing, a double swoop for Zubimendi and Guimarães is not out of the question. However, there is one complication—Arsenal are also monitoring Alexander Isak, and if the Swedish striker becomes available, the pursuit of Guimarães may be put on hold.

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Arsenal’s Ambition: Building a Title-Winning Team

The message from North London is clear—Arsenal are serious about competing for the Premier League title next season. After falling short in the last campaign, Arteta wants to strengthen his squad with top-tier talent.

Midfield reinforcements are necessary, given that Jorginho and Thomas Partey are set to depart. Jorginho is expected to join Flamengo, while Partey is exploring his options. These exits leave gaps that must be filled with quality additions.

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Zubimendi and Guimarães would significantly enhance Arsenal’s midfield, offering technical excellence, defensive solidity, and a stronger presence in key battles. If Berta can pull off both deals, Arsenal would boast one of the most dominant midfields in Europe.

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For Arsenal fans, this report is nothing short of exhilarating. The prospect of signing Zubimendi and Guimarães signals the club’s intent to compete at the highest level and finally end their Premier League title drought.

Zubimendi’s potential arrival is particularly exciting. His ability to dictate the tempo, combined with his defensive intelligence, could mirror the influence of Sergio Busquets during Barcelona’s golden era. A midfield trio of Zubimendi, Rice, and Ødegaard would be elite—offering balance, creativity, and defensive security.

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Guimarães, meanwhile, would bring an extra layer of dynamism. His Premier League experience, ability to drive forward with the ball, and knack for winning key duels make him a dream addition. With Rice and Guimarães, Arsenal would have one of the most physically dominant and technically refined midfield pairings in the league.

The biggest concern? Competition and finances. If Arsenal prioritise a striker, could the Guimarães deal fall through? And would Newcastle even be willing to sell to a direct rival? These are questions that will need answering, but if Arsenal pull this off, they will send a massive statement of intent.

This summer could be season-defining for Arteta’s side. Arsenal are going all-in—and the Premier League should take notice.