Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City are competing to secure the services of Martin Zubimendi, the Real Sociedad midfielder whose future is subject to considerable speculation this January transfer window. The 25-year-old has caught the attention of top clubs following his impressive performance at the Euro 2024, where he played a pivotal role in Spain's successful campaign.
Reports have emerged, particularly from the Independent, noting Arsenal's strong interest as they look to bolster their midfield options. Manager Mikel Arteta has identified Zubimendi as a potential target to strengthen what he calls the Gunners’ midfield depth. The player is touted as 'one of the best midfielders' who could seamlessly blend with current stars like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard. His ability to maintain control of the game and be physically resilient on the pitch makes him particularly appealing to Arteta’s tactics.
Meanwhile, Liverpool has not shied away from exploring their interests either. After opting not to pursue Zubimendi last summer, the Reds appear ready to reignite their interest. Liverpool initially targeted him as they sought to add depth to their midfield, especially following Arne Slot’s appointment as head coach. They were prepared to trigger Zubimendi’s release clause, set at £51 million, but the player opted to remain with Sociedad, his boyhood club.
Adding to the competitive atmosphere, Manchester City has also been keeping tabs on Zubimendi. With the potential exiting of influential players, including Kevin De Bruyne, and considering current injury woes with Rodri, City sees Zubimendi as a fit to reinforce their squad.
Despite the attention, Real Sociedad's sporting director Roberto Olabe has dampened expectations of Zubimendi’s imminent departure. Speaking with Estadio Desportivo, Olabe conveyed his confidence, stating, "I do not foresee any scares in January," reinforcing the idea of the player's commitment to his current club. He added, "There is little peace around the clauses, but... Martin himself has shown us... above the clauses are the wills." This indicates Zubimendi’s strong desire to remain at Sociedad, even amid offers from illustrious Premier League sides.
Zubimendi’s recent stats showcase his value; he has scored one goal and provided two assists across 21 appearances this season, building on his four goals and one assist from the previous term. His evolution at Real Sociedad, where he has amassed over 200 appearances since his debut, indicates his growing importance to the team.
While speculation continues to swirl, Zubimendi remains focused on helping Sociedad, who currently sits seventh in La Liga, navigate the season's challenges. The club’s positioning and their efforts to retain him come amid rising interest from abroad, but they can lean on their positive rapport and Zubimendi’s loyalty to keep him on board at least until the end of the current season.
Given the competitive nature of European football, it is unlikely Zubimendi's situation will be resolved until the summer transfer window, when clubs may renew their interest more aggressively. With Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City watching closely, the anticipated battle for Zubimendi could make headlines again soon, especially as clubs reevaluate their needs during and after the January window.
Roberto Olabe's assertions bring some reassurance to Real Sociedad fans, highlighting Zubimendi's commitment to their project. The strategic interests of top clubs undoubtedly make the midfielder's future one to watch, especially as English clubs remain hopeful of enticing him to the Premier League. For now, Zubimendi remains steadfast at his current club, with all eyes on how the January transfer window plays out for him and his admiring suitors.
