Arsenal not ruling out the departure of Real Madrid-linked midfielder | OneFootball

Martin Zubimendi was a player that Real Madrid held an interest in last summer, but ended up moving to Arsenal from Real Sociedad.

The Spanish midfielder became an important player for Mikel Arteta during his first year in London, playing a role part in their Premier League triumph.

However, he finished the season as a substitute and was even left out of the starting lineup for the Champions League final, perhaps because of physical fatigue.

This summer, Arsenal have also strengthened their midfield by signing Bruno Guimarães for €87 million.

Arsenal reassessing Zubimendi’s situation

According to the English newspaper Mirror (h/t AS), Arsenal are not closing the door on a departure for Zubimendi and are keeping an open mind regarding his future.

Arsenal open to sale. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Arsenal know that the Spaniard will have fewer minutes following the arrival of the Brazilian and would not rule out selling the midfielder if a good offer arrives.

The Gunners do not want Zubimendi’s value to decline if he fails to get enough playing time during the season, which begins this Sunday with the Community Shield final against Manchester City.

Real Madrid move back on?

There have been murmurs in Spain that Real Madrid could revisit their interest in Zubimendi this summer, especially after missing out on the signing of Manchester City superstar Rodri.

Indeed, the 30-year-old World Cup winner was the priority target, but has chosen to join Barcelona instead.

Will Real Madrid make a move? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

While the public stance is that Real Madrid do not wish to sign a new midfielder, options are being discussed internally, with Zubimendi’s name also having been assessed.

However, despite Arsenal not ruling out an exit for the Spain international, it appears unlikely that Real Madrid are considering a move for him as things stand.

Jose Mourinho has six midfielders contesting for two pivot midfield spots in his 4-2-3-1 setup, and unless there is an exit, a move for a new player seems out of the question.

Moreover, despite the club board being open to his sale, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta backed Zubimendi a year ago and will not make his departure easy.