European powerhouse ruled out of race for elite Arsenal midfielder
Real Madrid have distanced themselves from suggestions that they could make a late move for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi before the summer transfer window closes.
The Spanish giants have been linked with the 27-year-old as they assess their midfield options following Rodri’s move from Manchester City to Barcelona.
However, Marca reports that Real Madrid have consistently denied suggestions that Zubimendi is under consideration and currently regard their summer business as “95 per cent” complete.
That should offer some reassurance to Arsenal after the Spain international established himself as an important part of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s midfield last season.
Zubimendi arrived from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2025 after Arsenal activated the £51 million release clause in his contract, ending a long-running pursuit of the midfielder.
The Spaniard subsequently became a major part of the side that ended Arsenal’s 22-year wait for the Premier League title, making 36 league appearances and providing the positional discipline Arteta had wanted at the base of midfield.
His performances also helped him retain an important role for Spain before their World Cup triumph this summer.
Real Madrid’s midfield situation nevertheless explains why Zubimendi’s name has surfaced again.
Rodri had also been linked with a move to the Bernabeu before Barcelona secured an agreement with Manchester City for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.
Real Madrid are instead expected to proceed with their existing options unless there is an unexpected departure during the final days of the window.
Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga have both reportedly attracted Premier League interest this summer, and the departure of either player could potentially force Madrid back into the market.
For now, though, there is no indication that such a scenario would automatically result in an approach for Zubimendi.
That is significant for Arsenal because their midfield has already undergone another major change this summer following the £75m arrival of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United.
Zubimendi and Guimaraes give Arteta two elite midfield options with contrasting qualities, while Declan Rice provides further flexibility across the centre of the pitch.
The increased competition was evident during Sunday’s 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City, when Arsenal’s midfield helped control long periods of the contest.
Real Madrid’s admiration for high-level midfielders means speculation surrounding Zubimendi may not disappear permanently, particularly given his established reputation in Spain.
Their current position, however, suggests Arsenal have little reason to fear an immediate approach as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
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