Chelsea join Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in race for Arsenal midfielder Zubimendi

Chelsea have entered the race to sign Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi, joining Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in monitoring the Arsenal player ahead of the January 2027 transfer window.

The three clubs are assessing Zubimendi’s situation amid the possibility that he could leave Arsenal in January, according to the Independent. His position has become less prominent in Mikel Arteta’s plans in recent weeks, increasing uncertainty over his future at Emirates Stadium.

Interest in the midfielder has been strengthened by the clubs’ respective needs in the centre of the pitch. The Independent reports that the shortage of high-level options in Zubimendi’s position during the winter transfer market has made him an attractive target for all three sides.

Arsenal may need major sale to fund wide-player move

Zubimendi’s future could be connected to Arsenal’s plans to strengthen their attack. Arteta wants to add a quick winger who can carry the ball and make progress up the pitch, but the club may need to complete a significant sale before committing to that signing.

The Spanish midfielder is regarded as one of the leading candidates to leave because of the number of options now available to Arteta in midfield. Arsenal signed Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes for £85m last summer, further increasing competition for places.

Although Arteta continues to value Zubimendi’s ability, he has recently preferred Bruno Guimaraes and Declan Rice in midfield. Myles Lewis-Skelly is also among the manager’s options, making it more difficult for Zubimendi to secure a regular starting role.

Arsenal would not be willing to sell the player for less than the amount they paid to sign him from Real Sociedad in summer 2025. The club’s minimum asking price is understood to be £60m.

Despite his reduced involvement, Zubimendi retains significant value because of his contribution during Arsenal’s title-winning season. He also played an important part in the goal scored by Ferran Torres that gave Spain victory at the World Cup in July.

Zubimendi recovering from possible nose fracture

The midfielder is currently dealing with a potential nose fracture sustained during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Everton last month.

Zubimendi came on as a substitute in the 80th minute and later received treatment after taking a blow to the face. He has nevertheless been cleared to continue playing while wearing a protective mask until he recovers.

With the winter transfer window approaching, Zubimendi’s situation is set to attract increasing attention. Arsenal may have to consider selling him to help finance their attacking plans, while Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Chelsea compete for his signature.