Arsenal could sign Martin Zubimendi in 2024, even in January, as Mikel Arteta could look at the 24-year-old La Liga star to add to his squad.
According to Fichajes, Arsenal are among the teams looking at Martin Zubimendi and could make a move for the Real Sociedad star in 2024. The Gunners might even like to sign the 24-year-old La Liga star in January if Mikel Arteta needs to add in that window.
Arsenal had a good transfer window, but in the end, some may have wondered whether the club should have added more. There’s the issue of defensive depth in the squad, but the versatility of many defenders could offset that requirement.
The injury to Jurrien Timber early in the season may have begged that question. However, the latest injury to Thomas Partey has raised more queries about the depth in midfield, too. Arsenal won against Manchester United with Declan Rice as a single pivot and only supported by Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard on either side.
If there was an unfortunate injury-led absence for the England international this season, and with Partey’s questionable fitness record since joining Arsenal, there’s a severe lack of depth. Jorginho is there, but not so much as a long-term prospect for the club, but the Italian can get the job done when needed.
Hence, there’s every chance of Arsenal re-entering the market to bring another holding midfielder to shore up the side. They are now linked again with Martin Zubimendi, who may seem like Partey’s long-term replacement.
Zubmendi had links to Arsenal last January and earlier in this window when they were fighting with Man City for Rice. While the latter arrived in a huge move, the 24-year-old La Liga star remained with Real Sociedad despite some enquiries from English sides like Aston Villa.
Barcelona also held an interest, but the financial commitment needed to sign him may have proved difficult for the Catalans. Arsenal could move for Zubimendi in 2024, potentially even in January if the conditions suit the north Londoners.
The 24-year-old La Liga star has a €60 million release clause in his contract, and all Arsenal or other suitors have to do is activate it. In this market where some players have gone for absurd amounts, Zubimendi’s price seems cheaper.
Chelsea also had sights on the player, but Arsenal’s previous interest and relationship with Real Sociedad could play into their hands. The Gunners allowed Kieran Tierney to join them on a loan deal and could use it for their benefit in the Zubimendi case.
Ideally, one would earmark Arsenal to sign such a player in the summer window. However, they might talk with Sociedad to activate his clause if they need to add to their midfield in January.