Real Madrid have reportedly revived their interest in Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with Jose Mourinho said to be a strong supporter of a potential move.
According to Graeme Bailey, the Spanish midfielder has once again emerged on Real Madrid’s radar as Mourinho looks to add more experience and control to his midfield.
Zubimendi only joined Arsenal last summer in a €65 million move from Real Sociedad and was expected to become a central figure under Mikel Arteta.
However, the situation appears to have changed following Arsenal’s decision to strengthen further in midfield with the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes.
That development has raised questions within Zubimendi’s camp about his long-term role at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal willing to sell Zubimendi
Arsenal are ready to sell Martin Zubimendi. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
According to the journalist, discussions have already taken place as Zubimendi’s representatives assess his situation and explore the options available to him.
The 27-year-old is understood to have concerns about whether he remains as important to Arteta’s plans as he initially expected when joining Arsenal from Real Sociedad.
As far as Arsenal are concerned, they are not completely against the idea of allowing the Spain international to leave.
While there is no suggestion that the club is actively pushing him towards the exit, they would be willing to consider a suitable proposal.
That has opened the door for Real Madrid, who have admired Zubimendi for a long time and now appear to be exploring whether a deal could realistically be completed.
Mourinho has approved the signing of Martin Zubimendi. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The biggest issue will be Arsenal’s valuation of the player. Having invested €65 million in Zubimendi only last summer, the Gunners are unlikely to make his departure easy.
Mourinho wants Zubimendi to bring experience
Jose Mourinho is keen to bring more authority and experience into the holding midfield position, and Zubimendi is a player who fits the profile the Portuguese coach is looking for.
Real Madrid’s interest in the Arsenal midfielder is not new, but Mourinho’s approval could give the pursuit fresh momentum.
Interestingly, it is said that contact has been made regarding the midfielder, while sources close to the situation indicate that Zubimendi would be highly interested in the chance to move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, Real Madrid will need to determine Arsenal’s asking price first and then decide whether they are prepared to meet the financial demands required to sign a player who arrived in the Premier League only a year ago.