Arsenal have reportedly been linked with a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, a target for Barcelona.
Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of the 24-year-old midfielder, who is unwilling to leave Real Sociedad at the end of the season. A report from Football Transfers claims that Barcelona are keen on the player as well. But Zubimendi wants to continue at Real Sociedad beyond this summer.
The player has a release clause in his contract. But he has confirmed that such clauses do not matter because he is uninterested in leaving the Spanish outfit. It is no secret that Arsenal will have to add more quality and depth to their midfield. They should look to bring in a playmaker who can partner with Thomas Partey at the base of their midfield.
They have been heavily linked with the move for Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo. If they fail to sign the Premier League midfielder come up they will have to move on to other targets.
Zubimendi would have been an exceptional acquisition. The 24-year-old Spanish midfielder is an exceptional passer and he is adept when it comes to dictating the tempo of the game from the deep.
Zubimendi has the potential to develop into a top-class Premier League player, and Mikel Arteta could have helped him fulfil his potential. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal can change the player’s mind in the coming months. At this point in time, it looks like a move for the Spanish midfielder is impossible.
Arsenal have been linked with Declan Rice as well. The 24-year-old defensive midfielder is expected to leave West Ham in the summer and he could prove to be the ideal acquisition for the Londoners. A move to Arsenal would have been a major step up in the career of Zubimendi.
Meanwhile, Barcelona would have also been able to offer the Spanish international UEFA Champions League football. It will now be interesting to see if Arsenal and Barcelona retain an interest in him and return for his services in the future.
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Arsenal and Barcelona will be playing in the Champions League next season, and they are well-placed to win their league titles this year. They will be an attractive destination for any player during the summer transfer window.
