Real Madrid Eye £51m Arsenal Target with ‘Formal Contact’ Planned | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Interest in Zubimendi: Arsenal’s Race and Transfer Implications

Real Madrid’s interest in Martin Zubimendi is heating up, with the Spanish giants set to make their first formal contact for the Real Sociedad midfielder. The 26-year-old has been on Los Blancos’ radar for a while, and the club is keen to secure his services as a replacement for the aging Toni Kroos in their midfield. However, Arsenal remains a strong contender for Zubimendi’s signature, and the race between the two clubs could define the midfielder’s future.

Zubimendi’s Rise at Real Sociedad

Zubimendi has been a key figure for Real Sociedad since making his debut in 2019. Having come through the club’s youth ranks, the Basque-born midfielder has amassed 227 appearances for Sociedad, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists. His performances in LaLiga, coupled with his role in Spain’s Euro 2024-winning squad, have made him one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe. Zubimendi’s reputation as a reliable and talented player has made him an essential player for La Real, but now the question is whether he will stay in San Sebastián or take on a new challenge.

Photo: IMAGO

Arsenal’s Progress in Securing Zubimendi

Arsenal has been one of the frontrunners in the pursuit of Zubimendi, with the club reportedly having agreed to personal terms with the midfielder. As TEAMtalk notes, “a broad set of personal terms have been verbally agreed upon in terms of wage and bonus structure” between Zubimendi and Arsenal, with the Gunners prepared to activate his €60million (£51m, $62m) release clause. This development suggests that Arsenal are confident of securing the midfielder in the upcoming transfer window.

However, despite Arsenal’s progress, Real Madrid is determined not to let the player slip through their fingers. DefensaCentral reported that Madrid is keen to secure Zubimendi’s signature and will take the opportunity to make contact with Sociedad following their Copa del Rey semi-final tie against La Real. According to the report, “Madrid know that Zubimendi has a €60million (£51m, $62m) release clause in his contract,” and the Spanish giants are eager to explore options for securing a deal.

Negotiating the Release Clause: Madrid’s Approach

Real Madrid is set to inquire whether Sociedad would be open to negotiating the release clause. According to DefensaCentral, Madrid will ask if the release clause can be paid in instalments or whether Sociedad would consider accepting a player exchange along with a reduced fee. Zubimendi is a “key target for Madrid president Florentino Perez” and has been earmarked as the long-term replacement for Toni Kroos, who is nearing the end of his career.

Photo: IMAGO

Madrid’s approach indicates their seriousness about bringing Zubimendi to the Santiago Bernabéu. The club’s interest in the midfielder is not only driven by his talent but also by the desire to strengthen their midfield for the future. Kroos’ influence in Madrid’s midfield has been significant, but at 35, his time in the starting lineup is limited. Zubimendi’s age and playing style make him an ideal candidate to carry the torch forward for Los Blancos.

Implications for Arsenal and Real Madrid

With both Arsenal and Madrid vying for Zubimendi, the player faces an important decision. Arsenal is building an exciting project under Mikel Arteta and could offer Zubimendi the chance to play in the Premier League, while Madrid offers the allure of playing for one of the biggest clubs in world football. For Arsenal, securing Zubimendi would be a significant coup as they look to strengthen their midfield for their push towards further success in both domestic and European competitions.

For Madrid, losing out on Zubimendi would be a blow, particularly as they look to refresh their midfield options. Kroos’ eventual departure will leave a void in Madrid’s midfield, and Zubimendi is seen as the ideal successor. Madrid’s ability to negotiate a deal with Sociedad will depend on their willingness to meet the release clause or negotiate alternative terms.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal fans, the news surrounding Martin Zubimendi’s potential move to the Emirates Stadium is both exciting and nerve-wracking. The midfielder’s skills are exactly what Arsenal need to complement their exciting young squad. His ability to control the game, break up attacks, and distribute the ball efficiently would add another layer of quality to Arsenal’s midfield. The fact that personal terms have reportedly been agreed upon gives hope that a deal is on the horizon, but Real Madrid’s interest complicates things.

For Arsenal, Zubimendi could be the final piece in their midfield puzzle, providing the balance and stability required to compete at the highest level. While it would be disappointing to lose out on such a talented player to a club like Real Madrid, Arsenal’s progress and ambition under Arteta could convince Zubimendi to make the move to North London.

Ultimately, Arsenal must act swiftly to ensure they can outmanoeuvre Madrid and secure Zubimendi. His arrival would signify Arsenal’s continued intent to compete not only for domestic honours but also on the European stage. The battle for Zubimendi is just one example of the growing intensity of Premier League and European football as clubs look to strengthen their squads for the future.