A new contender has entered the race to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, according to reports.
On Tuesday, the Daily Mail revealed that Arsenal were poised to secure the Spain midfielder’s signature during the summer transfer window. Real Sociedad, however, intend to keep the 25-year-old at the club until the current season concludes.
The report states that Arsenal have agreed to meet Zubimendi’s £51 million release clause. The midfielder, who played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, is also the subject of additional negotiations. David Ornstein reports that Arsenal may even offer more than the release clause to spread the payments over several years, allowing for greater flexibility in their transfer plans.
However, Arsenal’s plans could be disrupted by interest from a second club.
Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany reports that Bayern Munich are now showing “concrete interest” in Zubimendi. Like Arsenal, Bayern are targeting a move next summer but are aware that Real Sociedad are unlikely to accept a fee below the player’s release clause.
Currently leading the Bundesliga under new manager Vincent Kompany, Bayern Munich have lost just one of their first 17 matches this season and hold a four-point lead over second-placed Bayer Leverkusen.
If Bayern succeed in signing Zubimendi, Kompany could face a selection headache in midfield. The club signed Joao Palhinha from Fulham last summer, but he is currently sidelined with injury. Meanwhile, Leon Goretzka has regained form and looks likely to remain at the club.
Plettenberg also notes that Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool are keeping tabs on Zubimendi, but none of them have yet made a formal approach.
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