Chelsea Keeps Tabs on Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi Ahead of January Transfer
Chelsea is closely monitoring Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi as the January transfer window approaches, according to reports from the Independent. The Blues are not alone in their interest, with both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid also keeping an eye on the player.
Advertisement
The focus on Zubimendi seems to hinge on his availability rather than just appreciation of his talent. The midfielder joined Arsenal in the summer of 2025 for a much-anticipated £60m transfer from Real Sociedad and initially secured a prominent position under manager Mikel Arteta. However, his status has changed, with reports indicating he “fell out of favour towards the end of last season’s title run.” This shift has caught the attention of top clubs looking for reliable quality in midfield.
Chelsea’s interest appears rational given their ongoing assessment of their midfield dynamics. Zubimendi is recognized as “one of the few high-level players potentially available” in the upcoming window. The winter transfer market notoriously poses challenges to teams seeking top-tier talent, particularly in central positions, thus making any player of Zubimendi’s caliber enticing.
Photo IMAGO
Advertisement
Zubimendi’s Role in Arsenal and Market Implications
The situation within Arsenal also factors into the equation. Manager Mikel Arteta still regards Zubimendi as a “valuable option,” but the midfielder now finds himself in a more competitive environment following the £85m signing of Bruno Guimaraes. With Declan Rice and Guimaraes forming the primary midfield pairing, along with Myles Lewis-Skelly frequently featured, Zubimendi’s playing time has become scarce. Arsenal’s focus has shifted, as they are also in search of a nimble winger who can advance the ball quickly.
This strategic pivot may influence transfer actions. Arsenal is “unlikely to move without first making a major sale,” which has led Chelsea and the two Madrid clubs to contemplate that “a deal may be possible” for Zubimendi. Among the midfielders potentially up for transfer, he appears to be the standout candidate.
Transfer Valuation and Future Outlook
If Arsenal decides to entertain offers, their expectation is clear: they aim to recoup at least the £60m they invested. For Chelsea, this would represent a significant expenditure during the winter transfer window, yet it also aligns with their need for an experienced international player who is still respected in the game, despite his diminished role in recent months.
Advertisement
Further complicating matters is Zubimendi’s current fitness, as he competes with a protective mask following a “suspected broken nose” sustained during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Everton last month. Nonetheless, he has been deemed fit enough to continue playing while he recovers.
Reflections on the Transfer Interest
At this stage, there is limited excitement regarding Chelsea’s pursuit without clear indications that they are prepared to take decisive action. Zubimendi possesses talent and intelligence, with a reputation at the highest level, but the scenario feels reminiscent of past instances where Chelsea has been linked to talent without a convincing path forward.
Advertisement
If Arsenal’s intention is truly to “recoup the £60m at least,” Chelsea must ensure that he can enhance their midfield. This fee poses a substantial risk for a player considered to have “fallen out of favour” at a rival club. While Zubimendi could introduce stability and control to the squad, prolonged negotiations without addressing other pivotal issues would likely result in disappointment. Keeping watch is prudent, but Chelsea’s ability to secure the right agreement at the right price is the critical factor in this unfolding story.
