Transfer wars continue: Arsenal vs Spanish giants, chapter 2
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 24.04.25. | 23:03
The Gunners might have won the war for Nico Williams, as Barca gave up on the forward, but now the London side will have to battle out with Real Madrid for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi
As part of their transfer activities ahead of the June Transfer Window and squad reinforcement for the next season, Arsenal have found themselves at "wars" first with Barcelona and then against Real Madrid.
The Gunners have won the battle for Nico Williams, as Barca gave up on bringing Athletic Bilbao forward, but now they'll have to lock horns with Los Blancos if they want to sign Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad.
Arsenal are confident they will make Real Sociedad midfielder MartÃn Zubimendi their first major summer signing despite interest from Real Madrid, sources have told ESPN.
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 24, 2025
Reports in Spain suggested Madrid had made a late move for the 26-year-old, while Liverpool have also been… pic.twitter.com/F8EUVqn1eW
The midfielder turned down Liverpool last August, wanting to stay close to his home and looking from that perspective, Arsenal don't stand a chance. However, the London side may have an ace up its sleeve - Mikel Arteta. The strategist is Basque, just like Zubimendi, so the origins and the 43-year-old's persuasive skills might make a difference.
On the other hand, Madrid hope that playing on a "homesick card" will convince the 26-year-old to opt for them. Yet, according to sources, the Gunners have better chances at the moment, though one thing could completely turn the tables - the eventual arrival of Xabi Alonso at Santiago Bernabeu.
Bayer Leverkusen's boss has long been linked to Real Madrid and has been pronounced Carlo Ancelotti's successor. Given that Alonso started his professional career at Sociedad, he'd be a stronger "trump card" than Arteta.
All in all, Zubimendi's decision will depend on various factors and although it's too soon to speak, he'll hardly stay at his boyhood club. Will he replace it with London or Madrid? We'll see.
PREMIER LEAGUE - MATCHDAY 34
Tuesday
Man.City - Aston Villa 2-1 (1-1)
/Silva 7, Nunes 90+4 - Rashford 18 pen/
Wednesday
Arsenal - Crystal Palace 2-2 (2-1)
/Kiwior 3, Trossard 42 - Eze 27/
Saturday
14:30: (1.63) Chelsea (3.80) Everton (5.70)
17:00: (1.67) Brighton (4.20) West Ham (5.00)
17:00: (1.20) Newcastle (6.75) Ipswich (14.0)
17:00: (5.00) Southampton (4.20) Fulham (1.65)
17:00: (1.62) Wolverhampton (3.80) Leicester (5.80)
Sunday
Sun 16:00: (1.70) Bournemouth (4.20) Man.Utd. (4.70)
Sun 18:30: (1.30) Liverpool (5.90) Tottenham (9.00)
***odds are subject to change***
.jpg)
