Arsenal are potentially back in the hunt to bring Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zudimendi to the Emirates Stadium as they create a backup plan for the potential departure of veteran star Thomas Partey, per teamTALK.
The Ghanaian international has less than a year remaining on his current contract. Several Saudi and Turkish clubs have enquired about his availability, with the Saudi Investment Fund offering a pre-agreement in January. This will help them to sign the 31-year-old for free next summer.
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Juventus were also offering an exit to Partey, but Manuel Locatelli’s resurgence has changed their plans. Zudimendi is not a new name to the Premier League teams.
Arsenal eye ‘most talked’ about midfield star playing in La Liga
Elite English clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal were highly interested in the Spanish meastro in the recent transfer window. The Reds were very close to a move, but the 25-year-old pulled the plug on the deal.
His progress has not gone unnoticed since going through the ranks at La Real. The No. 4 has played more than 200 games for his parent club, contributing nine goals and seven assists.
Whoever signs Zubimendi will be signing of the best DMs for, at least, the next 5 years. Complete player. Impact in every buildup action providing different advantages w/o even touching tb, amazing technique to pass/retain & instincts for positioning/2nd balls. True organizer #6. pic.twitter.com/DIRToyxr0T
— Daniel (@danieIscouting) February 8, 2024
Zubimendi has impressed on the international stage, winning the Euros 2024 with Spain. With so much quality, it is natural to attract top suitors. The midfielder might regret staying at San Sebastian this campaign as Sociedad lay in the 16th spot in La Liga.
Although he backtracked from his decision earlier, reports suggest that he might be lured if his team continues to struggle in the upcoming months.
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He will be a powerful replacement for Partey. The African honcho has been an excellent deputy, but it looks like the sun has set on his time at the Emirates.
Arteta wants Zubimendi to be the lynchpin of the midfield. He can excel in the No. 6 position, showing sharp passing, excellent tackling, and the ability to intercept play.
The 25-year-old, lauded as ‘world-class’ by former French star David Trezequet, can help Declan Rice play in a box-to-box role. A top pivot player to sum up.
Can Arsenal lure Martin Zubimendi to leave Real Sociedad?
The ball is in Arsenal’s court at the moment, but we can’t give any assurance until and unless the player himself gives a hint on his future.
The midfielder was adamant on his decision to stay in La Liga. With three years left on his contract, the North London outfit would need to splash £51.3 million to gain progress in this transfer.
Liverpool and other teams might also enquire about the Spanish star if he declares himself open for a move. Arsenal supporters will love to see their club moving for another Sociedad honcho.
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If the player becomes a Gooner, we will get to see three former La Real stars plying trade at the Emirates: Zubimendi, Martin Odegaard, and Mikel Merino. Could we get a chance to witness this dream trio function together? Only time will tell.
