Arsenal ready to approve €70m star’s January move to Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid decided against signing a new midfielder in the summer, after missing out on top targets Enzo Fernandez and Rodri. However, they have not discarded the matter completely, and a new move could be made as early as January.

After the Fernandez and Rodri options disappeared, Real Madrid decided there was no one else on the market that could fill the midfield void left by Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Thus, Bernardo Silva has been used as a deeper option by Jose Mourinho, although the club may look for a more permanent solution in 2027.

That solution could be Martin Zubimendi. Recent reports have confirmed that Real Madrid have reignited their interest in the Spanish midfielder, whom they tried to sign prior to his Arsenal move in 2025. The 27-year-old is reportedly considering his future in North London, having barely played since the start of the season, and this has created a window of opportunity that Los Blancos could exploit.

According to Sport, Arsenal are prepared to sell Zubimendi in January, with Real Madrid waiting in the wings. The Gunners are reportedly asking for €70m, and while this is slightly more than the €65m they paid to sign him from Real Sociedad in 2025, it is still a low enough price that Bernabeu bosses would consider it a good price.

Real Madrid desperately need a midfield controller

Real Madrid have started the season in good form, with five wins in their opening six matches. However, their performances have not been as convincing as Mourinho would have liked, and there is a good reason for this: they lack a midfield general, such as a Kroos or Modric. This has led to control being given up in recent fixtures against Inter Milan and Rayo Vallecano, and while they won both matches, this may not be sustainable long-term.

Thus, it would be wise to consider a move for Zubimendi, who fits the profile that Real Madrid need. €70m is not unreasonable, and if Arsenal are prepared to sell, all the better.