Arsenal have seen a 60m euro move for Real Sociedad midfielder Zubimendi turned down, with the Spaniard not keen to leave La Liga mid-season according to reports.
The Gunners are keen to add to their ranks before the January transfer window closes in 10 days time, having already added Leandro Trossard to their ranks and on the verge of signing Spezia defender Jakub Kiwior. They are also discussing a potential deal for right back Ivan Fresneda.
And, according to reports in Spain, they are not ready to stop there, with a move for a central midfielder on the cards even with their reported interest in Declan Rice for a summer move.
As it stands, an injury to one of Thomas Partey or Granit Xhaka would leave underwhelming backups Mohamed Elneny or Sambi Lokonga in Arsenal’s midfield, and there is clear need to strengthen in that area in the coming months.
With Mikel Arteta’s side currently five points clear at the top of the Premier League table, they are looking to strengthen their hand in order to win a first League title since 2004, and reports in Spain claim that they approached Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in order to do this.
As per Carrusel Deportivo, the Gunners were ready to meet the 60m euro (£52m) release clause of the 23-year-old, who has also been on the radar of Barcelona and who predominantly plays as a defensive midfielder.
With his boyhood club Real Sociaded currently 3rd in La Liga and just three points off the pace-setters Barcelona, it seems as though Arsenal may have to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements.
