Xabi Alonso doesn't forget about Zubimendi

The Basque coach already wanted the midfielder when he was on the bench at Real Madrid, now the same happens at Chelsea

Héctor Andreu | 7 Aug 2026 | 13.26
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<p>Xabi Alonso wants Zubimendi at Chelsea / La Razón</p>
<p>Xabi Alonso wants Zubimendi at Chelsea / La Razón</p>

Premier League
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Fulham Chelsea
24/08/26 21:00:00
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Martin Zubimendi, a 27-year-old midfielder from Arsenal, has entered the realm of Chelsea's transfer targets during this summer transfer window. Xabi Alonso knows the player from their time together at Real Sociedad and would welcome his incorporation, although Arsenal currently does not consider selling him.

The move comes after the Gunners have once again strengthened their midfield with Bruno Guimarães, whose deal amounts to approximately £75 million. Zubimendi is under contract until June 2030 and his market value is set at €75 million.

Martin Zubimendi losing weight despite his performances at Arsenal

Zubimendi arrived in London in July 2025 from Real Sociedad. Arsenal invested around €70 million to fulfill Mikel Arteta's request and make him a regular in their midfield right from the start.

His first season in the Premier League saw him feature in 38 matches, amassing 2,992 minutes. Additionally, he contributed 5 goals and an assist, his best offensive numbers to date.

However, his presence diminished towards the end of the season. Myles Lewis-Skelly, a 19-year-old, pushed up from full-back to the midfield, allowing Declan Rice to operate closer to the base of the play.

According to MundoDeportivo, the situation has become even more challenging with the arrival of Bruno Guimarães. Rice, Martin Odegaard, and the Brazilian are key figures in the rotation, while Lewis-Skelly offers Arteta another option for a season involving four competitions.

Xabi Alonso keen on bringing Zubimendi to Chelsea

Chelsea is now monitoring the situation closely. Recent reports from England indicate that Xabi Alonso has expressed interest in reuniting with Martin Zubimendi, whom he coached during their time together at Real Sociedad's reserves.

Their relationship goes way back. Zubimendi himself acknowledged in 2025 that Alonso had been a role model for him and highlighted the impact of working under him during his developmental years in San Sebastián.

This does not imply ongoing advanced negotiations. Arsenal has the Spanish international under contract until 2030, and sources close to the club suggest there is no intention to part ways with him this summer, even after securing the signing of Guimarães.

Arsenal reluctant to sell Martin Zubimendi

Arsenal's contractual position allows them to control the situation. Having paid around €70 million just a year ago and with Zubimendi still assessed at €75 million, any potential offer would need to involve substantial sums.

Chelsea must now decide whether to turn Xabi Alonso's interest into a concrete bid or keep the midfielder as a prospect dependent on his sporting situation. Arsenal, on the other hand, starts planning with the aim of retaining Martin Zubimendi, so any potential departure would first require a shift in the club's stance.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Xabi Alonso no se olvida de Zubimendi