In a recent interview with CaughtOffside, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Arsenal are set to rival Bayern Munich for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Romano said,
“Martin Zubimendi is still super happy at Real Sociedad. He loves the club, the city, the fans. No issues.
“Of course, if any club will trigger his release clause it will be up to the player to decide on the next move, but he’s surely on the list at Arsenal and Bayern (I never said Bayern were unlikely, just that he was a top target in case Alonso joined and it now will depend on the new coach).
“So, let’s wait and see on the movements in the summer, but Zubimendi is not pushing to leave, however, in case of proposals, he will consider his future.”
Zubimendi’s Impressive Form In Spanish Football
Zubimendi has managed to put in a string of solid performances at the heart of Real Sociedad’s midfield during this campaign. The Spanish midfield ace has featured in 43 matches for his current employers this season, scoring four goals and picking up one assist across all fronts.
The 25-year-old has anchored the midfield with conviction based on his average of 1.6 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per game in La Liga. He has even been careful when distributing possession from midfield after completing 86.3% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Move In For Zubimendi?
Zubimendi is a solid tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to make some timely interceptions for his side in the middle of the park. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when needed and is accurate with his passing from midfield.
The Spanish talent is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also play as a box-to-box midfielder if asked to do so.
We can expect Zubimendi to bring more bite and steel to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta‘s midfield department. At 25, the Spanish midfield ace has his best years ahead of him which makes him a worthy target for the Gunners to pursue this summer.
All in all, the North London club would be wise to move in for Zubimendi in the upcoming transfer window.
