Arsenal have been handed a big boost in signing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer.
The north London giants were regularly linked with the Spaniard during the January transfer window.
They were ready to trigger the €60 million release clause in his contract but Zubimendi decided to stay with the La Liga outfit to help them qualify for the Champions League.
The Gunners are likely to return for the 24-year-old this summer and they have been handed a huge boost following the comments from journalist Eugenio Mateo Serrano.
Speaking recently to Calciomercato.it, Serrano said that the Gunners are in the driving seat to sign Zubimendi ahead of Barcelona as he has his sights on Premier League football.
He said: “I do not think so. Xavi needs another player instead of Busquets. The number one pick is Martín Zubimendi, from Real Sociedad. But it’s also difficult because Zubimendi wants to play in the Premier League, and for me Arsenal are in pole position.”
Big boost for Arsenal in Zubimendi pursuit
There was a lot of talk over Arsenal’s interest in signing Moises Caicedo from Brighton & Hove Albion last month, but the club were also exploring a deal for Zubimendi.
The Spaniard has been a revelation for Sociedad from the holding midfield role. He has impressed with his strong physique and ability to win aerial challenges with ease.
With the player’s desire to play in the Premier League, Arsenal should be favourites to land him this summer.
Meanwhile, manager Mikel Arteta and Zubimendi are represented by the same agency and this could be another big advantage for the Gunners in the transfer race.
Zubimendi would be a fantastic acquisition. His exceptional work rate and ability to win key challenges makes him an ideal fit for the number six position at Arsenal.
Thomas Partey is obviously an undisputed starter at the moment, but Zubimendi would offer strong competition for places that the club have been lacking.
