Arsenal Set €90m Valuation for Martin Zubimendi Following Guimaraes Signing

What Happened

Arsenal has established a €90 million (£77 million) asking price for midfielder Martin Zubimendi, signaling a shift in the club's tactical plans following the high-profile acquisition of Bruno Guimaraes. The North London club secured Guimaraes from Newcastle in a £75 million deal, marking their third major signing of the summer transfer window alongside winger Christos Tzolis and goalkeeper Illan Meslier.

Zubimendi, who joined Arsenal for £60 million from Real Sociedad last year, faces an uncertain future after a decline in form during the latter stages of the previous season. The Spanish international was notably excluded from the starting lineup during the Champions League final against PSG, and the arrival of Guimaraes is expected to further limit his opportunities in the starting eleven.

Why It Matters

The situation has attracted interest from major European clubs. Real Madrid, having previously missed out on Zubimendi, is considering the 25-year-old as an alternative target after failing to secure Rodri from Manchester City. Simultaneously, Chelsea is pursuing the midfielder under the direction of manager Xabi Alonso. Alonso, who previously coached Zubimendi at Real Sociedad’s reserve level, is reportedly urging the Chelsea board to finalize a deal to integrate the Spaniard into his West London tactical framework.

Background

Zubimendi arrived at the Emirates with high expectations following Spain's Euro 2024 victory. However, his tenure has become complicated by inconsistency during the Premier League title run-in. Analysts, including Jamie Carragher, have suggested that the signing of Guimaraes reflects a pivot by Mikel Arteta toward a midfield anchored by different physical and technical attributes, potentially ending Zubimendi's time as a central figure in the Arsenal squad.

Key Facts

• Arsenal is demanding at least €90 million (£77 million) for Martin Zubimendi.
• The club recently completed a £75 million signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.
• Zubimendi was purchased from Real Sociedad for £60 million in the previous summer window.
• Real Madrid and Chelsea are the primary suitors for the Spanish international.
• Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso previously managed Zubimendi at Real Sociedad B.