Arsenal could reportedly face competition from as many as four European giants for the signature of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Earlier this week, it was reported that the Gunners will land long-term target Zubimendi at the end of the current season, with sources indicating the deal is 'virtually completed'.
It is understood that Arsenal are expected to trigger Zubimendi's €60m (£51m) release clause and although Mikel Arteta would like him to link up with his senior squad immediately, Real Sociedad have insisted that the midfielder will stay put until the summer.
Arsenal are believed to be in the market for midfield reinforcements amidst uncertainty over the futures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey, who both have less than six months remaining on their contracts.
The Gunners have decided to focus their attentions of luring Zubimendi to North London, but a summer switch to the Emirates Stadium may not be a foregone conclusion just yet.
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European quartet keepings tabs on Arsenal-linked Zubimendi
According to Sky Deutschland reporters Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal are showing 'very concrete' interest in Zubimendi and are 'pushing a lot' to sign him next summer.
However, Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich continue to monitor the Spain international as they weigh up a potential summer move.
It is also claimed that Premier League leaders Liverpool and La Liga duo Real Madrid and Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Zubimendi's situation.
Liverpool were heavily linked with a move for the 25-year-old last summer, but a transfer to Anfield failed to materialise as he opted to make a "selfish" decision in turning down the Reds in favour of remaining at boyhood club Real Sociedad.
Zubimendi has two-and-a-half years remaining on his Real Sociedad contract and the La Liga side are said to be unwilling to do business with any clubs who are unprepared to meet his €60m release clause.
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Why is Real Sociedad star Zubimendi in demand?
Zubimendi has spent his entire career at Real Sociedad and has developed into one of the most valued deep-lying midfielders in Europe during his time with the La Liga side.
Since and including his debut in April 2020, Zubimendi has made a total of 210 appearances for the San Sebastian-based outfit across all competitions, including 31 La Liga outings for a side that finished sixth last season.
The midfielder has since played more minutes (1,895) than any other outfield player at Real Sociedad this term; he ranks in the top five for tackles (45) in La Liga and in the top 10 for blocks (26), interceptions (25) and aerial duels won (73.8%).
On the international stage, Zubimendi has earned 15 caps for Spain and memorably replaced the injured Rodri at half time during the Euro 2024 final against England, before scoring his first goal for his country against Denmark in October last year.
Oliver Thomas
