Mourinho Is “Already Talking About” January Deal For Midfielder With Arsenal Braced For Approach
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Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is pushing for the La Liga giants to sign a midfielder during the January transfer window, with Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi set to be the main target, according to journalist Joaquin Maroto.
Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is also on the club’s radar, but Maroto says an approach for the Gunners star is much more likely.
“Zubimendi is the only midfield signing that fits Real Madrid right now because Adam Wharton can’t come.”
“Jose Mourinho has requested the club to sign a new midfielder in January while Real Madrid’s final decision is still pending.”
“It’s Mourinho who’s going to request the signing of a midfielder; he’s already talking about it within the club.”
Would Arsenal sell Zubimendi?
After being a key player for Arsenal during his first season at the Emirates, the Spanish international has become a peripheral figure in recent months.
Zubimendi has only started one match so far this campaign – that was the 4-2 win over Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup last month.
The Spaniard has made regular appearances off the bench, but he has fallen behind both Myles Lewis-Skelly and Bruno Guimaraes in the pecking order.
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Zubimendi has reportedly spoken to Arteta
It has been claimed that the 27-year-old has already had showdown talks with manager Mikel Arteta about the lack of playing time.
Zubimendi is said to have been given assurances at the meeting that he would get more minutes, but if his situation doesn’t improve by January, he may seek an exit.
If Real do come calling and he is still sitting on the bench, there is every chance he will actively push for a move back to Spain midway through the season.