Martin Zubimendi’s highly anticipated move to Arsenal this summer is currently hanging in the balance, with Real Madrid launching a late and aggressive push to secure the talented midfielder’s signature. The 26-year-old Spaniard, who has been a key figure for Real Sociedad and recently impressed on the international stage, was widely expected to complete a £51 million transfer to the Gunners, but recent developments have cast uncertainty over the deal.
Arsenal fans were buzzing with excitement after Zubimendi’s commanding performance in the UEFA Nations League Final against Portugal, where he not only controlled the midfield but also scored the opening goal for Spain. This moment was a clear answer to long-standing questions about his ability to contribute offensively. Despite playing primarily as a deep-lying midfielder, Zubimendi has a respectable goal tally of 12 across club and country—10 for Real Sociedad and 2 for Spain—averaging a couple of goals per season. While he is unlikely to become Arsenal’s leading scorer, his knack for timely goals and his pivotal role in building play from the back are expected to bolster the Gunners’ midfield significantly.
However, the transfer saga has taken a twist. Reports from reliable sources indicate that although Arsenal had a verbal agreement in place and were set to pay the €60 million (£51 million) release clause in Zubimendi’s contract, the midfielder has put his potential move on hold. The reason? Real Madrid, under new head coach Xabi Alonso, are making a final push to bring Zubimendi to the Spanish capital. Alonso, who has a history with the player, views him as the ideal candidate to fill the void left by Toni Kroos’ retirement a year ago.
According to Diario AS, Real Madrid has concluded that none of their alternative midfield targets, such as Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, match Zubimendi’s quality. This has led to a strategic approach where Madrid plans to negotiate with Real Sociedad by offering loan players—either from Real Madrid Castilla or even first-team members—free of charge to reduce the effective transfer fee. This maneuver aims to circumvent the hefty €60 million release clause, which Madrid considers too steep. Financial considerations also play a role in Madrid’s hesitancy; while Arsenal is reportedly offering Zubimendi an attractive annual salary of around £8 million (€10 million), equating to approximately £160,000 per week, Real Madrid’s offer is significantly lower, in the €6-7 million range for the first season, with potential incremental increases. This means that Zubimendi would have to sacrifice future earnings if he chooses to join Madrid.
The midfielder himself remains non-committal about his future. In a recent interview, when asked about the possibility of staying at Real Sociedad for another season, Zubimendi responded, “Of course there are options, but it’s true that it seems like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it will end. I don’t think thinking about it right now is my priority. I’m here with the national team, which I think is already quite demanding, and if I have to say something, then I will.” His ambiguous remarks have fueled speculation that he is weighing his options carefully before making a final decision, keeping Arsenal and Real Madrid both in the mix.
For Arsenal, the potential loss of Zubimendi would be a significant blow to their midfield rebuild plans. The Gunners have struggled to find consistent goal contributions from midfield, with no player managing double figures in goals during the 2024-2025 season. Zubimendi’s ability to break up play, circulate possession, and occasionally get on the scoresheet was expected to provide a much-needed boost. Manager Mikel Arteta’s vision of a dynamic, possession-based midfield could be hampered if the transfer falls through.
On the other hand, Real Madrid’s interest highlights the midfielder’s rising stock in European football. Xabi Alonso’s desire to reunite with Zubimendi reflects the coach’s trust in his abilities and the strategic importance of reinforcing the midfield with a player who combines defensive solidity with technical skill. Madrid’s offer, although financially less lucrative, might appeal to Zubimendi’s preference to remain in Spain and compete at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League.
As the summer transfer window progresses, the situation remains fluid. Arsenal appear ready to meet the release clause and offer a competitive salary, underscoring their commitment to securing Zubimendi’s services. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s innovative approach to lowering the transfer cost and their persistent pursuit could sway the midfielder’s decision. Fans on both sides are eagerly awaiting clarity, knowing that Zubimendi’s next move will shape the midfield landscape for the 2025-2026 season.
What is clear is that Martin Zubimendi is at a crossroads in his career, with two prestigious clubs vying for his talents. Whether he chooses the challenge of Premier League football with Arsenal or the allure of La Liga and Champions League glory with Real Madrid, his presence on the pitch promises to be a defining factor in whichever team he joins.
