Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a late move to hijack Arsenal's £51 million deal for midfielder Martin Zubimendi, potentially disrupting what appeared to be a nearly completed transfer.
According to reports, Arsenal had reached advanced negotiations with Real Sociedad and triggered Zubimendi's £51 million release clause. The deal was reportedly so close to completion that only the medical examination remained before it could be officially announced, with all payment structures already agreed upon.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, Real Madrid have made contact with Zubimendi's representatives to determine whether the player has finalized his agreement with the Premier League club. This intervention from the Spanish giants has reportedly "changed everything," making Zubimendi aware of the possibility of joining the La Liga champions instead.
Madrid's Late Intervention
Real Madrid are now said to be considering a formal approach to Real Sociedad and have expressed a desire to sign the midfielder who had been Arsenal's primary summer target. This last-minute interest from one of the world's biggest clubs could potentially derail Arsenal's transfer plans.
Despite Madrid's intervention, Arsenal reportedly remain confident they will secure their top transfer target. The Gunners have been methodical in their pursuit of Zubimendi, having already agreed to meet his release clause and settled on payment terms with Real Sociedad.
This transfer saga highlights the competitive nature of the European football market, where even seemingly completed deals can face disruption from elite clubs with significant financial and reputational pull.
For Zubimendi, the situation presents a significant career decision between joining Mikel Arteta's project at Arsenal or potentially becoming part of Carlo Ancelotti's squad at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The coming days will likely determine whether Arsenal can fend off Real Madrid's interest and complete their planned acquisition of the Spanish midfielder.
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