Arsenal are reportedly considering selling Martin Zubimendi to Chelsea for £78m this summer transfer window. The Gunners are looking to strengthen their midfield with the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes, who has just signed for £75m from Newcastle United. This could lead to a game of musical chairs in the transfer market, with Chelsea potentially looking to sign Martin Zubimendi as a replacement for Enzo Fernandez.
What happened?
Arsenal are reportedly considering selling Martin Zubimendi to Chelsea for £78m this summer transfer window.
Why it matters for Arsenal
The sale of Martin Zubimendi could lead to a change in the Gunners' midfield dynamics, with Bruno Guimaraes expected to start regularly in Mikel Arteta's midfield next season.
What comes next?
Arsenal are expected to listen to offers for Martin Zubimendi, with a minimum asking price of £78m. Chelsea are reportedly among the contenders for the Spain international's signature this summer.
As a result of the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes, Martin Zubimendi is expected to start regularly in Mikel Arteta's midfield next season. With Declan Rice an undisputed starter in midfield, this arrival is likely to affect the Spaniard, who had managed to establish himself in his very first season at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal are therefore said to be willing to listen to offers for the Spain international and have reportedly set a minimum asking price of £78m. A significant sum, though a fairly logical one for a productive 27-year-old under contract until June 2030. For his part, the player himself wants to continue playing an important role, which leaves the door slightly open for a move this summer.
This could work in Chelsea's favour. According to the same source, the Blues are among the contenders for Martin Zubimendi's signature this summer, with Xabi Alonso having previously worked with the San Sebastian-born midfielder and long admiring his profile. He is a player who fits perfectly with the style of play the London club's new manager wants to implement. A game of musical chairs could take shape this transfer window, with a potential Rodri departure for Barcelona, whom Manchester City could replace with Enzo Fernandez. Chelsea would then be in the market for a midfielder and could accelerate their pursuit of Zubimendi as a result.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 1st in Premier League, 85 pts, 26W-7D-5L from 38 games, recent form WWWWW. Goals this season: 71 scored, 27 conceded (+44 goal difference). Lead at the top: 7 points clear of Manchester City. Last result: Crystal Palace 1-2 Arsenal (2026-05-24). Recent form (last 5): 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first); on a 5-game winning run. Currently sidelined: Jurriën Timber, Louie Copley.
