Zubimendi emerges as fresh Real Madrid midfield option after Rodri setback

Real Madrid are considering a move for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi after abandoning their efforts to sign Manchester City star Rodri, who chose Barcelona instead this season.

The Spanish club’s interest has been prompted by Jose Mourinho’s request for a new central midfielder, with president Florentino Perez reportedly turning to a familiar target, according to Spanish newspaper Sport.

Zubimendi was previously monitored by Real Madrid before leaving Real Sociedad for Arsenal last summer in a deal worth about €60m. The 27-year-old could now become the club’s preferred alternative after Rodri decided to join Barcelona rather than move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Reports in the English media suggest Zubimendi’s position at Arsenal could become less secure following the club’s signing of Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes. The arrival of the midfielder may reduce Zubimendi’s opportunities under Mikel Arteta during the new season, meaning Arsenal are not expected to rule out the possibility of his departure.

Zubimendi remained an important part of Arteta’s plans last term and featured in every Premier League match for the London club. However, Arsenal are understood to be unwilling to see his market value decline because of a reduction in playing time.

The midfielder’s influence had already diminished towards the end of last season. He was not selected in the starting line-up for Arsenal’s Champions League final, underlining the uncertainty surrounding his place in the team.

Arsenal also need to sell players to create the financial flexibility required for further recruitment. The club are looking to strengthen in key areas, including on the left wing, and a sale involving Zubimendi could help provide room for those moves.

For Real Madrid, the Spain international would offer a significant increase in ambition and quality during periods of possession. His potential arrival could also allow Perez to make up for the disappointment of missing out on Rodri, who opted to continue his career at Barcelona.

Any transfer, however, would depend on Real Madrid reaching an agreement with Arsenal. A move would also require one of the Spanish club’s current players to leave, because every place in the first-team squad is occupied at present.

Real Madrid’s previous interest in Zubimendi means the midfielder is already a known option for the club’s hierarchy. His experience in La Liga, combined with his role in Arsenal’s midfield, has kept him on the radar as the Madrid side reassesses its recruitment plans following Rodri’s decision.

For now, the possibility of a transfer remains dependent on developments at both clubs: Arsenal must decide whether Zubimendi still has a central role in Arteta’s plans, while Real Madrid must create space in their squad before pursuing the deal.