Arsenal have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of transfer target Martin Zubimendi. The Gunners have been tracking the Real Sociedad midfielder ahead of the January transfer window, football.london understands.
Zubimendi, who has a €60million (£52.3million) release clause, was of interest to the north Londoners and Barcelona in the summer, although he ultimately made the decision to remain at Sociedad. But the Spanish international won’t be going to the Nou Camp, according to Mundo Deportivo, who have reported that the La Liga champions are pursuing a different type of midfielder.
It is claimed that Xavi’s side are keen to sign a similar player to Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni, with Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United, Everton’s Amadou Onana and Monaco ace Youssouf Fofana all said to be on the Blaugrana’s transfer shortlist. A move for Zubimendi would make sense for Arsenal considering they are currently quite short of options in midfield, with Thomas Partey currently sidelined due to injury.
football.london understands that Partey is set to be out of action for the remainder of 2023 after undergoing a procedure. When asked on Friday if the Ghana international could return before the game against Liverpool on December 23, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said: “We don’t know.
“He’s getting a very good evolution in the injury, but it’s a bit early for the time frame. That would be incredibly fast if he’s able to do that.
