Real Madrid target Martin Zubimendi as the Spanish giants step up their interest in the Arsenal midfielder, with Jose Mourinho reportedly keen to strengthen his holding midfield options and the Spain international said to be attracted by a potential return to Madrid.
Zubimendi only joined Arsenal after leaving Real Sociedad, but his impressive reputation has ensured that his name remains firmly on Real Madrid’s radar.
The Spanish giants have admired the midfielder for some time and had previously identified Manchester City captain Rodri as another major target for their midfield.
However, Rodri is now reportedly closing in on a move to Barcelona, potentially increasing the importance of Zubimendi in Real Madrid’s plans.
Mourinho wants Zubimendi at Real Madrid
Mourinho is understood to want greater experience, authority and composure in the holding midfield position.
Zubimendi fits that profile, having established himself as one of Spain’s leading midfielders before making the move to the Premier League.
Sources indicate that the Portuguese coach has a strong appreciation for the Arsenal star and sees him as a player capable of bringing greater control and tactical discipline to the Real Madrid midfield.
Contact has reportedly already been made regarding Zubimendi.
More importantly for Real Madrid, the midfielder’s camp is said to have made it clear that the Arsenal player would welcome the opportunity to move to the Spanish capital.
That development could significantly change the complexion of the transfer battle.
Zubimendi open to Madrid return
Although Zubimendi has spent only one season in England, the prospect of returning to Spain appears to hold considerable appeal.
The midfielder’s familiarity with Spanish football, combined with Real Madrid’s global status, could make the proposed transfer particularly attractive.
However, interest from the Spanish giants does not automatically mean Arsenal will agree to sell.
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The Gunners are expected to have a major say in determining whether the deal can happen, particularly after investing in the midfielder.
Arsenal stance could decide transfer
A major stumbling block could be Arsenal’s asking price.
Real Madrid will need to decide whether they are prepared to meet the figure required to prise Zubimendi away from the Premier League club after just one season.
The situation therefore leaves the Spanish giants with a difficult decision.
They clearly admire the midfielder, but Arsenal have little reason to make negotiations easy if they consider Zubimendi an important part of their plans.
The longer the transfer saga develops, the greater the pressure could become on Real Madrid to establish exactly how much they are willing to spend.
Real Madrid plan wider midfield reshuffle
Zubimendi is reportedly being considered as part of a broader midfield restructuring at Real Madrid.
The Spanish giants are not simply looking for another midfielder. They are also assessing the future of several players currently within their squad.
Eduardo Camavinga is one of the players whose future has reportedly come under scrutiny.
The French midfielder was allegedly told earlier this summer that he was surplus to requirements and could leave the club.
Real Madrid could therefore view Zubimendi as an ideal addition capable of strengthening the midfield while also helping facilitate changes elsewhere in the squad.
Rodri situation could boost Zubimendi interest
Real Madrid’s long-standing interest in Rodri had appeared to offer another route for the club to strengthen the position.
However, the Manchester City captain is now reportedly close to joining Barcelona.
If that move is completed, Real Madrid may have to focus more heavily on alternative targets.
Zubimendi could consequently become one of the most attractive options available to Mourinho.
His profile offers a combination of technical quality, positional intelligence and experience that could fit the demands of Real Madrid’s midfield.
The possibility of the Arsenal star returning to Spain has therefore emerged as one of the intriguing transfer stories surrounding the Spanish giants.
Mourinho faces key transfer decision
Mourinho’s interest could ultimately prove decisive if Real Madrid choose to pursue the midfielder aggressively.
The Portuguese coach wants greater authority in the holding role, and Zubimendi appears to match the qualities he is seeking.
But the transfer depends on several factors, particularly Arsenal’s valuation and Real Madrid’s willingness to pay.
Zubimendi’s reported desire to move to Madrid could strengthen the Spanish club’s position, but Arsenal will still control the immediate decision over whether the midfielder can leave.
For now, Real Madrid’s interest has firmly returned to the spotlight.
If the Spanish giants make a serious approach and meet Arsenal’s demands, Zubimendi could be presented with an opportunity to make a swift return to Spanish football.
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