Reports regarding Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi's potential summer transfer have offered conflicting information. While some sources in England indicate a move to Arsenal is close to being finalized, reports in Spain suggest an expected coaching change at Real Madrid could influence the player's decision.
Sources in England report that Arsenal has secured an agreement on personal terms with Zubimendi. The London club is reportedly prepared to meet the player's €60 million release clause to bring him to the Premier League. The agreement is described by some as complete.
These reports emerge as Xabi Alonso is widely anticipated to become the next coach of Real Madrid. Alonso previously managed Martín Zubimendi at Real Sociedad's B team, a relationship cited by some Spanish reports as potentially swaying the player toward Madrid.
However, Spanish news outlets present differing accounts of Xabi Alonso's transfer preferences. Some reports from Madrid suggest Alonso has specifically requested Zubimendi, aiming to challenge Arsenal for his signing as Real Madrid evaluates midfield options.
Conversely, other reports indicate Xabi Alonso is targeting a different type of midfielder for Real Madrid, with Barcelona's Pedri mentioned as a player Alonso admires, though acknowledging the difficulty of such a transfer.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Zubimendi is currently focused on finishing the season with Real Sociedad, aiming to secure a European qualification spot.
The contrasting reports highlight the uncertainty surrounding Zubimendi's next destination as the transfer window approaches, pitting English and Spanish club interests against each other, potentially influenced by a manager's future move.
