In a dramatic development that has thrown the summer transfer window into chaos, Martin Zubimendi’s long-expected move to Arsenal is suddenly hanging by a thread. Just as the North London club appeared to have landed one of their top targets, a last-minute intervention from Real Madrid has turned what seemed like a done deal into a high-stakes tug-of-war between two of Europe’s most storied clubs.
Zubimendi, the highly rated midfielder from Real Sociedad, had reportedly agreed to personal terms with Arsenal. The Gunners, in their push to reinforce midfield depth ahead of the 2025–26 season, were on the verge of completing the €60 million transfer. Arsenal fans had already begun to celebrate, with social media abuzz over the Spanish international’s expected arrival at the Emirates.
But then, just as final paperwork was being prepared, a call from Madrid disrupted everything. According to several sources close to the negotiations, the call came directly from individuals linked to Xabi Alonso’s camp. The message to Zubimendi was clear and simple: wait. A spot at the Bernabéu might be opening, and it has his name on it.
This sudden twist has not only delayed the transfer—it has also placed Zubimendi in a deeply difficult position. On one side is Arsenal, a club that has pursued him with persistence and professionalism, offering him a pivotal role in Mikel Arteta’s project. On the other is Real Madrid, the most successful club in European history, offering legacy, trophies, and the chance to follow in the footsteps of Spain’s midfield greats.
The player himself is reportedly torn. Sources close to the midfielder suggest that he remains grateful to Arsenal for their interest and the clarity of their proposal. But the emotional and professional weight of a Real Madrid offer—especially one endorsed by Xabi Alonso—cannot be underestimated. For a Spanish player, the chance to wear white at the Bernabéu is often seen not just as a career move, but as a dream fulfilled.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are said to be frustrated, but not panicked. They understand the power Real Madrid holds in moments like this and are said to be continuing dialogue with both the player and his representatives. However, they are also exploring alternatives, knowing full well that time is of the essence with preseason plans looming.
Madrid, for their part, are playing their cards with careful precision. While they haven’t yet submitted a formal bid, the signaling from Alonso’s circle has been enough to throw the entire operation into limbo. Some insiders believe the club is waiting to see how other targets develop before making a definitive move. But others argue this is a calculated effort to disrupt a rival’s summer plan—something not uncommon in the upper echelons of the transfer market.
Beyond the two clubs, the entire football community is watching this saga unfold. For neutral fans and pundits alike, this transfer drama has all the elements: a top young talent, two European powerhouses, strategic maneuvering behind the scenes, and a player caught between ambition and identity.
The next few days will be decisive. If Arsenal can convince Zubimendi to stay the course, it would be a huge statement of intent from a club that has been rebuilding for years and is now looking to challenge seriously for major trophies. But if Real Madrid enters the race officially and puts an offer on the table, it may be impossible for the player—or anyone else involved—to say no.
What started as a routine summer transfer is now a defining moment in the window. One phone call changed everything. Now, Zubimendi must decide between the future that’s been laid out in North London and the iconic pull of Madrid’s white shirt. Whatever choice he makes, it will shape not only his own path—but the strategies of two major clubs and the narrative of European football’s summer.
