Martin Zubimendi rejects Atletico Madrid transfer talk and insists on Arsenal focus

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has dismissed reports linking him with a January move to La Liga side Atletico Madrid, insisting his attention is on securing regular football and helping the Gunners challenge for the Premier League title.

The 27-year-old defensive midfielder has played only 100 minutes across seven Premier League appearances this season, a significant reduction from the influential role he held in Arsenal’s team during the campaign that ended the club’s league title drought.

Recent reports have suggested Zubimendi could return to Spain, with Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid identified as a possible destination. Speculation increased after his Spain team-mate Alex Baena publicly backed the idea of the move.

However, Zubimendi said he had not spent any time pursuing a transfer or speaking to potential clubs.

“I haven’t wasted any energy on external matters,” he told Marca ahead of Spain’s Nations League matches.

“I have enough on my plate trying to earn a place, get playing time, and fight to win this Premier League, which is looking so promising. I haven’t spent any energy on that, nor have I contacted anyone.

“To be honest, the press sometimes surprises me too. I understand that the winter transfer window is approaching and rumours can surface, but I think we need to be a bit more careful with what we publish.”

Zubimendi joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad and has made 69 appearances for the North London club. He has scored six goals and provided four assists during his time with the Gunners.

The midfielder also rejected suggestions that a move to Atletico Madrid was close, while acknowledging that transfer speculation often increases as the January window approaches.

“In the end, everyone has a team they play for, and we need to respect that. I’ve also read that I might be close, but not at all,” he added.

Zubimendi could return to international action when Spain play Czechia on Thursday. He may also be involved in Sunday’s meeting with England.

His comments come as competition for places remains intense at Arsenal, with the Spaniard seeking more opportunities after his reduced involvement in the Premier League this season. Despite the limited minutes, Zubimendi has maintained that his priority is to establish himself in the Arsenal side rather than consider a winter departure.