Zubimendi Opens Doors

Martín Zubimendi is once again at the center of the transfer market. The Arsenal midfielder, 27 years old, has ruled out a potential move to Atlético de Madrid, while Real Madrid and Chelsea appear as alternatives for his future. His lack of prominence in London, where he has accumulated just 380 minutes in 12 matches, fuels rumors about a possible exit in 2027.

The future of the Donostia player has changed in the last few days. Zubimendi wanted to deny reports placing him close to Atlético de Madrid for the upcoming winter market. In statements to MARCA, the player expressed his surprise at the rumors and denied that there is any approach with the red-and-whites.

I strongly believe Zubimendi still has a lot to offer for Arsenal https://t.co/V80KVJKD6q

— Forever Arsenal (@Arsenal_N10) November 13, 2026

Zubimendi rules out Atlético de Madrid and changes the scenario

The player's stance coincides with that of the Madrid club. According to reports from Cadena COPE, Atlético has ruled out any negotiations or intention to sign the midfielder during January. Thus, an operation that gained momentum after reports of a possible exchange with Julián Álvarez loses traction.

However, the scenario is not closed for other contenders. Zubimendi has not confirmed a decision to leave Arsenal, but his sporting situation has led several teams to keep an eye on his availability.

The midfielder arrived at Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2025, from Real Sociedad, for approximately 60 million euros. His contract with the English club runs until June 2030, so any negotiations will also depend on the financial demands of the Londoners.

Real Madrid resurfaces in Zubimendi's horizon

Real Madrid is one of the clubs that have been tracking the Spanish international for some time. His profile as a positional midfielder, capacity to organize ball progression, and tactical reading align with the needs identified by the white team in their midfield.

José Mourinho is looking for alternatives to strengthen the midfield and believes that a player with Zubimendi's characteristics could bring balance to the squad. The possibility of signing him will depend on the club’s sporting planning and Arsenal's decision regarding his continuity.

It would not be the first time that the Donostia player's name is linked to Santiago Bernabéu. During his time at Real Sociedad, Real Madrid considered signing him, although they ultimately did not make an offer that would allow closing the deal.

Now, the circumstances are different. Zubimendi has experience in the Premier League and has demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest European level. However, his contractual situation forces Real Madrid to carefully assess the cost of an operation that would not be straightforward.

Chelsea also wants to take advantage of his situation in London

The other major candidate is Chelsea. The London club, managed by Xabi Alonso, is also among the clubs interested in the midfielder, according to reports from England. The presence of the Spanish coach could be an important factor. Alonso already knew Zubimendi during his time at Real Sociedad B and has always valued his ability to interpret the game from the pivot position.

Chelsea could offer him a competitive environment and an opportunity to regain prominence, being Xabi Alonso a coach who knows him and would be happy to work with him. At Arsenal, the arrival of Bruno Guimarães has further complicated his presence in Mikel Arteta's plans.

The numbers explain part of the problem. Zubimendi has accumulated 380 minutes spread over 12 games this season, with participation far below what he expected when arriving in England. According to information published by The Athletic, Arsenal has no intention of facilitating his exit in January, despite the player’s desire for more minutes.

Arsenal has the final say on his future

Zubimendi's situation still needs several movements to become a market operation. The player has a contract until 2030 and Arsenal currently does not consider parting ways with him during the winter window.

Real Madrid and Chelsea will have to wait to know Arteta’s final stance and the will of the player himself. The elimination of Atlético Madrid from the race clears part of the scenario, but it does not mean that there is an advanced negotiation with the other two contenders.

Zubimendi: “Han salido cosas que no eran ciertas y quería aclararlas. Estar tranquilo y trabajar”. https://t.co/HJ9zRBtqym

— Adrià Jiménez Muñoz (@adriaJM8) November 12, 2026

Zubimendi is back on the radar of two major European clubs, and his lack of minutes could become a reason to seek an exit in the coming months. The summer market of 2027 appears as a more realistic possibility if Arsenal maintains its refusal to negotiate in January.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Zubimendi abre puertas