Arsenal are ready to sign Martin Zubimendi, but they still have reason to worry about the Spanish midfielder's decision. The Gunners could secure a £51m move, although Zubimendi still needs a medical check-up.
This is not the first time a transfer deal has been ruled a completed for the Spaniard. Last summer, Liverpool also believed that Zubimendi would be the first contract of coach Arne Slot. However, the Real Sociedad player changed his mind at the last minute.
While Arsenal have agreed on a payment for Sociedad, Zubimendi himself hinted that his future is still uncertain. When asked if he could continue at his home club, the 26-year-old noted that he did not know what the future would look like.
"Of course there are options, but the truth seems like it will be a long and different summer. I don't know how it will end.
At the moment, I don't think thinking about that is my priority. I am here with the national team, which I think is quite tense. And if I have to say something, I will say it," said Zubimendi.
Real Madrid have not given up on signing Zubimendi. According to reports in Spain, coach Xabi Alonso is even said to have turned this player into his main target. Real Madrid are still missing a piece in midfield left by Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.
Zubimendi also wants to stay in Spain if he decides to leave the Anoeta Stadium, according to Spanish media. The 26-year-old is even said to be attracted to the idea of playing for Real Madrid under Alonso.
The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich star previously coached Real Sociedad B. During that time, Zubimendi was a player under coach Basque.
If Zubimendi is willing to reject Arsenal to move to Real Madrid, Los Blancos will try to negotiate a deal lower than the £51 million buy-off clause. Zubimendi's contract is valid until 2027.
The Spanish giants also did not want to accept the offer Zubimendi received from Arsenal. The North London club is said to have made a salary deal worth around £8 million/year.
