Real Madrid still pushing to hijack Arsenal’s move for Zubimendi | OneFootball

Real Sociedad Expect Arsenal to Win Zubimendi Race Despite Madrid Interest

Arsenal face late competition from Madrid for top midfield target

As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal remain confident of landing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad despite a late twist involving Real Madrid. According to Miguel Delaney, Sociedad believe their long-coveted midfielder is still more likely to end up in North London, even though Madrid have entered the picture with familiar timing and influence.

The 26-year-old has long been on Arsenal’s radar, with a broad agreement reportedly in place. Delaney states that “Real Madrid noise about Martin Zubimendi has surprised those at Real Sociedad, who would obviously prefer to sell to Arsenal, and still anticipate that’s what will happen.”

Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause is no deterrent for Europe’s elite, and both Arsenal and Madrid are preparing for key midfield reinforcements following trophyless campaigns.

Zubimendi’s style fits Arsenal’s rebuild

For Mikel Arteta, adding Zubimendi is not just a luxury signing but a structural necessity. With Jorginho ageing and Thomas Partey’s future uncertain, the Basque midfielder would offer stability, vision and defensive intelligence at the base of midfield.

Photo IMAGO

Sociedad’s preference to deal with Arsenal is significant. The clubs have maintained a respectful relationship and the Gunners’ long-term interest in Zubimendi has not gone unnoticed in San Sebastián.

Delaney also pointed out that Arsenal had “all of the main details of the deal sorted” and were “relaxed on it before the weekend”, suggesting the situation was close to completion before Madrid’s intervention.

Madrid’s rebuild adds pressure to the situation

Real Madrid’s interest has intensified following a disappointing season and the arrival of Xabi Alonso as manager. Having already added Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, Alonso has identified Zubimendi as a key piece of his new-look midfield.

According to Defensa Central, Alonso told his Madrid superiors, “If he comes, he’ll do very well, he’ll immediately perform at a high level.”

Photo: IMAGO

With Zubimendi scoring in Spain’s Nations League final loss to Portugal, his performance on the biggest stage has only reaffirmed his readiness for the next level.

Race now defined by timing and player preference

Ultimately, the race may come down to who acts first. Arsenal have done the groundwork. Madrid have the pull of prestige and an emotional link in Alonso. Zubimendi, for now, remains publicly silent, but Real Sociedad’s stance is clear: Arsenal are still in the lead, and perhaps more importantly, the preferred route.

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This story feels painfully familiar. Arsenal scout diligently, negotiate early, build the relationship, and then, at the last minute, Madrid swoop in. This time, it’s Zubimendi, a player whose profile screams ‘Arteta signing’: calm under pressure, tactically disciplined, and mature in possession.

But this is Madrid. And as Delaney wrote, “this is exactly what Madrid do.” Arsenal’s relaxed posture is now under scrutiny. Have we once again underestimated the gravity of late Spanish interest?

There is real risk here. While Sociedad prefer a deal with Arsenal, their hands are tied if Madrid trigger the same release clause and Zubimendi chooses Santiago Bernabéu. Emotional pull, European heritage, and the Alonso connection are all working in Madrid’s favour.

For fans, the worry is twofold. First, that this move collapses and leaves them scrambling late in the window. Second, that it underlines a recurring pattern: Arsenal positioning themselves smartly, but failing to close the deal when it matters most.

If this move is truly as advanced as reported, then now is the time to act. Because waiting on Madrid to blink first is rarely a winning strategy.