Spain International Martin Zubimendi could be on the move this summer, with both Arsenal and Real Madrid in the hope of convincing the midfielder to leave Real Sociedad
Arsenal's striving for the real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi could reportedly be hijacked by Real Madrid. The Gunners have had a long -term interest in Zubimendi, which has a release clause of £ 51 million in his contract.
It was previously reported that Arsenal was in advanced conversations this summer to sign Zubimendi, with the gunners who want to bring him in to replace Thomas Partey and Jorginho that are expected to leave the Emirates when their deals end at the end of the season.
However, according to reports from Spain, Madrid will offer strong competition for the signature of Zubimendi. Spanish outlet, as well as reporting that Zubimendi is seen as a potential replacement for Toni Kroos, who retired last summer.
It is also claimed that Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha is also on their radar, but Zubimendi would turn out to be a cheaper acquisition because of his release clause. A separate report from El Partidazo De Cope claims that the agent of Zubimendi 'listens to offers' for the midfielder and that Madrid President Florentino Perez 'makes his move'.
However, it is noted that the final decision will be up to the player and it is still to be seen where Zubimendi will play next season. The Spain International was strongly connected to a move to Liverpool last summer, but eventually decided to stay in Sociedad.
Zubimendi explained his decision to reject Liverpool, said El Diario Vasco: “I went on vacation and it was surprised me. It was not something that I had planned. I responded when the situation arose.
“It was an uncomfortable time for me, but I weighed the pros and cons and concluded that the best option was to stay. I don't believe in 'unique' opportunities. If you are good and want to achieve something, it will come to you.
“It is not necessary to hurry. I looked at my personal progression, who I am, and the club's project. I stayed because I knew that this season would be important for me in the team, and I still had steps to take.
“It was not that hard of a decision. There were many reasons for my decision, but I was selfish and thought about what was best for me – and that was staying.” Zubimendi has been in Sociedad since the age of 12 and appeared more than 200 performances for the club in all competitions.
However, he is open to leaving Sociedad if the right chance occurs. “My philosophy is to always do what I feel,” he added. “So far, things have gone well for me. It is true that there was a lot of noise.
“I went through uncomfortable moments. The best for me was to stay here and I am happy and in peace. There is a lot of noise because of the press, but in the end everything is easier than everything.
“Of course I don't regret it, I can't think that after four or five games at the start of the season. I made my decision from the inside, I thought it was best to do, the results have no influence on me. I see potential in this team, you just have to see us training and I am enthusiastic about a good season.”
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