Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi could push for a transfer away from the Premier League champions in the January window. The 27-year-old Spanish international has reportedly lost his starting position under manager Mikel Arteta, according to a report from Sky Sports Football on Thursday.
Teamtalk said: "Martin Zubimendi may push to leave Arsenal in January after losing his starting spot under Mikel Arteta." The outlet's report suggests both Chelsea and Real Madrid are monitoring the situation with a view to a potential move.
Why would Zubimendi consider leaving?
Zubimendi's potential desire to depart stems from a lack of regular first-team football. Since joining the club, he has found himself outside Arteta's preferred starting lineup. This comes as Arsenal sit second in the Premier League table with a perfect record of nine points from three matches. The team's strong start, which includes six goals scored and only one conceded, has been achieved with other players featuring in the midfield roles. Supporters can view the full list of available players on the club's squad page.
Who is reportedly interested?
Interest in the player is said to come from two major clubs. Chelsea are named as one potential suitor, with their ownership group, Clearlake Capital, reportedly closing in on an agreement to buy out Todd Boehly and Mark Walter. The other club linked is Real Madrid, often referred to simply as Madrid in the report. Neither club has made an official approach, and the information remains at the speculation stage from paper talk.
What other transfer news is circulating?
The same roundup from Sky Sports Football included several other snippets. It noted that Everton have played down the possibility of signing free agent Anthony Martial. IPaper said: "Everton have played down the possibility of a move for free agent Anthony Martial." Elsewhere, Crystal Palace forward Eddie Nketiah is considering switching his international allegiance from England to Ghana.
What is Arsenal's immediate focus?
For Arsenal, the immediate priority is maintaining their flawless league form. Their next challenge is an away trip to face Sunderland on Saturday, 12 September. Sunderland currently occupy 12th place in the standings. Fans can check the full schedule on the fixtures page. The speculation around Zubimendi's future is a subplot to the main objective of continuing a title defence that has begun with three consecutive wins.
