Martin Zubimendi’s Arsenal future hangs in the balance as Real Madrid reportedly keep the door wide open for a potential transfer. The Spanish midfielder, signed last summer to succeed the veteran Jorginho, dazzled in the early months alongside Declan Rice but saw his influence diminish dramatically in the latter half of the season.
This decline allowed academy star Myles Lewis-Skelly to seize the midfield reins, including starting the Champions League final, leaving Zubimendi struggling to reclaim his starting berth amid swirling rumors of a summer exit.
The 27-year-old’s move to Arsenal was hard-fought, with the Gunners fending off fierce competition from Manchester City and Liverpool to secure his signature from Real Sociedad, where he was a mainstay for six years and made over 200 appearances. Yet, despite Arsenal’s initial success in landing Zubimendi, Real Madrid’s interest has never waned. Spanish media outlets, including Defensa Central citing Cadena SER’s Javier Herraez, assert that the World Cup winner remains a “perceived opportunity” for the Galacticos. Herraez emphasized, “Real Madrid aren’t doing well right now and they’re worried about how the team is playing. I don’t think they’ll go for him now, but I wouldn’t rule anything out, especially in football: above all, in that position.”
Real Madrid’s midfield void left by Toni Kroos’ unexpected retirement at 34 has left the club scrambling for control, with Rodri once a prime target before Barcelona swooped in. Meanwhile, Arsenal have bolstered their midfield options by acquiring Bruno Guimaraes, who has already made an immediate impact with two Premier League goals and a commanding 90 minutes in their recent Champions League triumph over Lille. Guimaraes’ rise has pushed Zubimendi further down the pecking order, signaling trouble for the Spaniard’s long-term role.
Insiders suggest Zubimendi is among the most likely to depart Arsenal by the summer of 2027, a scenario shaped by promises made upon his arrival and his potential to remain fourth-choice in midfield. However, Arsenal’s participation across four competitions could still offer him opportunities to reclaim significance, especially with injuries affecting squad depth. The recent setback to Piero Hincapie forced Lewis-Skelly back to left-back, potentially reopening a path for Zubimendi to challenge Guimaraes once fit.
Valued at €65 million by Transfermarkt, Zubimendi’s fate could become a pivotal story as Arsenal prepare to face Nottingham Forest in their upcoming Premier League fixture. The Spaniard’s next moves will be closely watched by both North London and Madrid, as the battle for midfield supremacy intensifies on both fronts.