Arsenal decide on Martin Zubimendi transfer as Enzo Fernandez’s Man City deadline sets off a chain reaction
Arsenal have reportedly made up their minds about Martin Zubimendi’s future, especially with Premier League rivals Chelsea interested. But before anything happens, a few moves involving other midfielders might need to fall into place.
Even though Zubimendi joined Arsenal ahead of the 2025/26 season, his time at the club seems limited now that Bruno Guimarães has arrived. The Brazilian is expected to partner Declan Rice in midfield, which could mean fewer chances for Zubimendi to play.
Mikel Arteta has also been choosing Myles Lewis-Skelly and Mikel Merino over Zubimendi at times, suggesting he’s not first choice right now. In fact, Zubimendi had an awkward moment last season when he was subbed in and then taken off again during an important win against West Ham. Arteta later picked Lewis-Skelly to start in the Champions League final, with Zubimendi only coming on as a substitute.
This summer, the 2026 World Cup winner has been linked with a move to Chelsea, where new boss Xabi Alonso wants to shape his team. Arsenal might be open to selling too — reports say they’d accept around £77million for Zubimendi.
That move might depend on whether Enzo Fernandez stays at Chelsea. Fernandez is linked with a switch to Manchester City, who have a deadline to sign him by Friday if Rodri moves on, possibly to Barcelona.
Real Madrid also showed interest in Zubimendi last summer before Arsenal signed him, and they could come back for him if their other transfer targets don’t work out.
Zubimendi, under contract until 2030, played 57 times last season but scored just six goals and three assists, despite Arsenal winning the Premier League and reaching the Champions League final.
So far this summer, Arsenal have seen players like Karl Hein, Jakub Kiwior, Christian Norgaard, and Leandro Trossard leave. But the transfer window only closes on September 1, and Arteta has made it clear he’s still looking to bring more players in.
When asked if fans should expect more signings, he said: “That’s what we’re trying to do. If the right player is out there who can make us better, we’re very excited about that.”