Real Madrid-Arsenal "battle" ends: Martin stays

Arsenal's brief flirtation in the centre-back market has come to an unexpected end. According to Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal had made contact for Real Sociedad centre-back Jon Martin, with the 20-year-old reported to be open to the idea of joining Arsenal. Real Madrid were also said to have asked about Martin, while Barcelona were reported to be keeping a close eye on his situation.

The background to this interest lay in another Arsenal file. This interest formed part of the club's search to fill the gap left by William Saliba's back injury suffered at the World Cup; according to Sport Witness, Arsenal had previously signed Mikel Merino (2024) and Martin Zubimendi (2025) from the same club and had now turned to La Real once again, this time for a centre-back.

However, this development coincided with a critical turning point. According to FootballTransfers, Real Sociedad announced on Thursday that they had signed Martin to a long-term deal running until 2032, containing a €60 million release clause; the move is reported to have been made to deter high-profile suitors such as Arsenal and Real Madrid.

This clarity also brought an end to the rivalry between the two La Liga giants. According to Mundo Deportivo, this marks the end of a "fight" between Arsenal and Real Madrid; it is emphasised that, despite the "tempting" approaches, the player wants to continue his development in San Sebastian and is going nowhere this summer.

The fee assessment also explains Arsenal's hesitancy. According to FourFourTwo, a fee above £50 million could prove too steep for a "project player" not yet expected to directly replace Saliba.

Arsenal's alternative plans are also on the agenda. The club is recalled to retain serious interest in Ezri Konsa, with free agent John Stones also being mooted as a short-term option.

Source: Mundo Deportivo
Image: World Soccer Talk