Fabrizio Romano gives update on Arsenal’s pursuit of ‘extraordinary’ £53m player

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Arsenal are looking to sign a midfielder in the January transfer window, but may not have much luck in their pursuit of Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.

The midfielder has been a long-term transfer target for Mikel Arteta, and has been in excellent form for Real Sociedad in La Liga and the Champions League this season.

With Thomas Partey picking up yet another injury, Zubimendi may be targeted in the January transfer window in order to help solve Arsenal’s problems in midfield, with Kai Havertz disappointing since his summer arrival from Chelsea.

However, Arsenal may face a problem should they try to sign Zubimendi in the winter window, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Fabrizio Romano reveals problem in Arsenal’s Zubimendi pursuit

In his Daily Briefing, Romano revealed that despite Arsenal’s interest in the Spaniard, Zubimendi has no current desire to leave Real Sociedad in the January window.

“Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is another player really appreciated by Mikel Arteta, and he looks perfect for their project, but from what I’m hearing, the player is very happy at his current club and not thinking about moving at the moment,” Romano claimed.

“He also has a €60m release clause, so is another target who wouldn’t come cheap.”

Why do Arsenal want Zubimendi?

The 24-year-old has excelled for Real Sociedad for the last few years, helping them qualify for the Champions League for the first time in a decade last season, and could slot straight in both as a deep midfielder and further up the pitch.

Declan Rice has been playing as a number eight in recent weeks, with Jorginho at the base, and Zubimendi may be seen as a long-term replacement for the Italian.

The Spain international has previously been described as “extraordinary” by Barcelona manager Xavi, with the Blaugrana also interested in the player.

With a £53m release clause, Zubimendi would not come cheaply, and given that his club are set to reach the Champions League knockout stages, a deal looks difficult to do, but in the long run, he could be an excellent addition to form a midfield three with Rice and Martin Odegaard.