Real Madrid Circle Martin Zubimendi: €90 Million

The shifting midfield balance at Arsenal following Bruno Guimaraes' transfer has put Martin Zubimendi's future back in the spotlight. According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid have once again placed the Spanish midfielder on their radar. According to the report, Zubimendi was a key part of the side at the start of last season, but his form dipped following a minor knee injury, and he has increasingly struggled for playing time at Arsenal since.

According to the report, Real Madrid had already shown interest in Zubimendi last summer while he was still playing for Real Sociedad, but acted too late and lost out to Arsenal. Now looking to try again, Real Madrid face two major obstacles: Arsenal have made clear they will not sell for less than €90 million — a higher figure than they would have paid for Rodri — and Chelsea stand out as a strong competitor in this pursuit. It's noted that Xabi Alonso wanted to bring Zubimendi to Real Madrid a year ago, and is now pushing for the same player at Chelsea.

With one door in their midfield search having closed after Rodri chose Barcelona over Real Madrid despite the club's interest, Real Madrid are said to have put the Zubimendi option back on the table following this latest development. Zubimendi, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for around €70 million last season on a five-year deal, is said to be at risk of losing his place alongside Declan Rice following Guimaraes' arrival. Names such as Manu Kone and Richard Rios are also said to be under consideration among Real Madrid's midfield alternatives.

Source: Mundo Deportivo
Image: The Sporting News