Reports suggesting Chelsea could make a surprise move for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi appear to have suffered a significant setback, with the latest claims indicating that Mikel Arteta has no intention of allowing the Spain international to leave.
Zubimendi, 27, has emerged as a potential target for Chelsea following reports that his position in Arsenal’s midfield could come under increased pressure. The arrival of Bruno Guimarães has added further competition for places, while Zubimendi’s involvement reportedly declined towards the closing stages of Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
However, more recent reports claim Arsenal have now taken a firm stance over the midfielder’s future. FootballTransfers has reported that the Gunners have “absolutely no intention” of selling Zubimendi, with Arteta remaining a long-standing admirer of the player he pursued for several years before bringing him to north London from Real Sociedad.
The latest position would represent a major blow to Chelsea’s hopes of securing the Spanish international, particularly after earlier reports suggested Arsenal could consider a sale if a substantial offer arrived. Some outlets had claimed that the Premier League champions could demand around €90 million for Zubimendi, while Chelsea and Real Madrid were both linked with monitoring his situation.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Zubimendi remains an important member of Arteta’s squad. The midfielder made 57 appearances in all competitions during his debut season and played a significant role in Arsenal’s Premier League triumph, although reports have pointed to a reduction in his prominence later in the campaign.
Arteta has also publicly stressed the importance of maintaining depth and competition within his squad as ARSENAL prepare to defend their title. Recent reporting has described Zubimendi as remaining a key part of the manager’s plans despite the increased competition following Guimarães’ arrival.
CHELSEA’s reported interest has added another layer to an already intriguing transfer story. The Blues are understood to have explored the possibility of bringing Zubimendi to Stamford Bridge, with speculation also fuelled by the midfielder’s previous connection with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso.
But if the latest reports are accurate, Arsenal’s position is now clear: Zubimendi is not for sale.
The situation could still be revisited if circumstances change before the transfer window closes, but for now, CHELSEA appear unlikely to prise the Spanish midfielder away from the Emirates Stadium.
ARSENAL, meanwhile, will hope that increased competition for places pushes Zubimendi to rediscover his best form as Arteta’s side begin the defence of their Premier League crown.
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