Real Madrid can still reportedly hijack Arsenal's seemingly nailed-on transfer for Martin Zubimendi.
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Arsenal are firm favourites to sign ZubimendiReal Madrid also hold an interest in the player The midfielder is yet to make a final decisionFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
According to Arsenal’s ambitious move for Zubimendi is suddenly in doubt, with Madrid now emerging as a potential last-minute suitor. The Gunners reportedly secured a verbal agreement with the 26-year-old and are ready to activate his €60 million (£51m/$68m) release clause. A formal announcement was believed to be the only thing left pending. But recent developments suggest the situation might not be as secure as once thought.
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Although most signs point toward a move to North London, Cope’s sources from the Basque region suggest the midfielder has yet to make a definitive call. However, with Luka Modric set to depart, Los Blancos are looking to bolster their midfield, and Zubimendi’s profile fits the bill. Cope adds that if Madrid were to fully commit to signing him, the Spanish international would likely favour a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
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Concerns at the Emirates are understandable, especially in light of a similar episode last summer. Liverpool, confident they had tied up a deal for Zubimendi and prepared to meet his buyout clause, were blindsided when the player ultimately opted to remain at Real Sociedad. That unexpected twist serves as a cautionary tale for Arsenal, who are now facing renewed competition at the eleventh hour.
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Madrid's new manager, Xabi Alonso’s be pivotal in this developing story could be pivotal. The former Spanish international is believed to have recommended Zubimendi as one of his ideal midfield signings for Madrid. If the club decides to act on Alonso’s suggestion, they have the financial and sporting weight to unsettle Arsenal’s plans.
