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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly stepped up his chase to sign Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi as a priority transfer target, with fresh reports claiming the Blues are considering a £64 million move for the Spain international before the summer transfer window closes.
According to CaughtOffside, Alonso has urged Chelsea’s board to pursue Zubimendi as he looks to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the new campaign. The report suggests the former Bayer Leverkusen boss views his compatriot as an ideal fit for his tactical system, citing the midfielder’s composure in possession, defensive awareness and ability to dictate the tempo of matches.
The latest speculation comes after the Gunners sealed a deal with Newcastle for Bruno Guimaraes, potentially paving the way for movement involving Zubimendi, although there has been no indication from Arsenal that they are prepared to sell the 27-year-old.
Zubimendi joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad last summer and quickly established himself as a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield. His performances during his debut season earned widespread praise, with the Spain international becoming an integral part of Arteta’s preferred starting XI thanks to his positional discipline and passing range.
Should CHELSEA formalise their interest, any deal is expected to prove difficult. Arsenal are unlikely to be eager to strengthen a Premier League rival, particularly with Zubimendi under a long-term contract and considered one of the club’s most important players.
Why Martin Zubimendi Could Be a Great Signing for Chelsea
Martin Zubimendi may be an Arsenal star, but if Chelsea ever had the opportunity to bring him to Stamford Bridge, they should seriously consider it. The Spanish midfielder has shown during his first Premier League season that he can provide something Chelsea have often lacked: control.
Zubimendi is not the type of midfielder who needs to dominate the headlines. His biggest strengths are his composure, positioning and ability to keep the ball moving. He made 38 Premier League appearances for Arsenal last season, starting 34 of them, underlining just how important he became to their midfield.
For CHELSEA, that reliability could be hugely valuable. The Blues have plenty of athletic and creative midfielders, but adding a player capable of dictating the tempo could bring greater balance to the team. Zubimendi can sit in front of the defence, offer an outlet under pressure and help Chelsea control matches rather than constantly relying on transitions.
His intelligence would also make him an attractive option for a possession-based side. UEFA’s technical observers highlighted his composure and key role in controlling Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final against Sporting
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