Martin Zubimendi may have recently returned to the Real Madrid transfer conversation, but Jose Mourinho has not asked the club to sign the Arsenal midfielder.
According to Mario Penalver, sources close to Mourinho have denied claims that the Real Madrid manager is pushing for a move for Zubimendi.
The update comes after reports from England suggested that the Spain international was back on Real Madrid’s radar and that Mourinho was a strong supporter of a potential transfer.
However, Penalver’s information directly contradicts that version of events.
Zubimendi linked amid Arsenal uncertainty
Zubimendi has found himself at the centre of transfer speculation following Arsenal’s decision to sign Bruno Guimaraes.
Zubimendi is reportedly back on Real Madrid’s shortlist. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
The arrival of another high-profile midfielder has created some uncertainty around Zubimendi’s role in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
After joining Arsenal from Real Sociedad last summer, the Spaniard expected to be an important part of the project, but the changing midfield picture has raised questions about his position.
Reports have suggested that discussions have taken place as Zubimendi’s camp assesses the situation and considers the options available.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are not believed to be actively looking to sell the midfielder. However, the club could consider an appropriate proposal rather than treating him as completely untouchable.
That situation naturally brought Real Madrid back into the conversation, particularly after recent reports suggested Los Blancos could still sign a midfielder before the transfer window closes.
Previous Mourinho claim now directly challenged
Mourinho has not requested for the signing of Martin Zubimendi. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Earlier reports had claimed that Mourinho was keen on Zubimendi and viewed the 27-year-old as a suitable addition to his midfield.
That claim has now been challenged, as people close to Mourinho insist that the Portuguese coach has not requested the signing of Zubimendi.
For what it is worth, though, this does not necessarily rule out Real Madrid’s interest in signing a new midfielder.
There is an important distinction between the club monitoring a player and Mourinho personally asking for his signing.
At present, though, there appears to be no evidence that the Real Madrid manager is pushing for Zubimendi.