Highly-rated Spanish midfielder keeps Real Madrid and Arsenal guessing over future move | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Martin Zubimendi is entering a delicate stage, with fresh reports from Real Madrid Confidencial suggesting that the Real Sociedad midfielder is close to deciding his future.

It is no secret that the Spanish midfielder has long been on Real Madrid’s radar, but they currently face direct competition with Arsenal, who are intensifying efforts to secure his signature.

The outlet suggests that Zubimendi has the backing of key figures within Real Madrid, where he is seen as a natural fit for the team’s evolving midfield.

With Toni Kroos now retired and Luka Modric nearing the end of his iconic career, Zubimendi is viewed as a long-term solution.

Arsenal are a thorn

Interestingly, Arsenal seem to have stolen the march because they have made the 26-year-old a priority signing, with the manager personally pushing for his arrival.

Martin Zubimendi is yet to make a decision. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

It is said that Mikel Arteta’s influence could be decisive, especially considering his success in persuading fellow Spaniards like Mikel Merino.

According to sources, Arsenal are more proactive in this chase, with a firm intent to meet the player’s release clause, which is said to be around €60 million.

Player yet to make a decision

For now, though, Zubimendi has not yet made his final decision, but it is increasingly clear that he soon will because he he is ready to take the next step.

After staying loyal to Real Sociedad last summer, the midfielder now seems open to a move and while Arsenal may currently be more aggressive, Real Madrid are not too behind as well.

In a market where elite midfielders often come at an astronomical fee, the €60 million price tag on Zubimendi appears reasonable given his qualities and experience.

Yet, timing could be everything for everyone involved. If Real Madrid want to avoid losing him, they will need to make a move much better than Arsenal present their offer.