Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a reported Barcelona target as the club assess alternatives to Frenkie de Jong. Arsenal could face a decision over the midfielder’s future if Barcelona make their interest official.
Arsenal
Full name: Arsenal Football Club Nickname: The Gunners Founded: October 1886 Stadium: Emirates Stadium Owner: Kroenke Sports and Entertainment Co-chairmen: Stan Kroenke, Josh Kroenke Manager: Mikel Arteta League: Premier League Season 2025/26: Champions Website: arsenal.com Arsenal football club is one… Read More about ARSENAL
**Barcelona**are saying they are looking at Martin Zubimendi as a choice instead of Frenkie de Jong, as per the latest transfer news. The Arsenal player has drawn attention from his team but moving is not likely to happen. Barcelona are still checking their options, in the middle of the field and Arsenal has no reason to let him go without an offer.
Martin Zubimendi attracts Barcelona interest
As reported by CaughtOffside, Barcelona are considering Zubimendi while evaluating midfield options. The Spanish club is also looking at alternatives to De Jong and De Jong’s fitness and future role could impact Barcelona’s plans. Zubimendi joined Arsenal to strengthen Mikel Arteta’s midfield. Zubimendi’s passing, awareness and ability to protect the defence make him a useful option for Arsenal. Zubimendi can also help control the pace of a match, which suits Arsenal’s style of play.
Zubimendi’s position at the Emirates Stadium has become a talking point this season. Competition for places has limited Zubimendi’s minutes raising questions about how much game time Zubimendi will receive in the coming months. That situation could attract interest from clubs looking for a midfielder.
Barcelona know Zubimendi well from his years in football and a return to La Liga could appeal if Zubimendi’s role in London does not improve, however this remains a transfer link. Neither Barcelona nor Arsenal has confirmed that talks have begun and Arsenal has not indicated that they want to sell Zubimendi.
Martin Zubimendi’s Arsenal stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Chances Created Duels Won % Defensive Contributions
Premier League 38 19 59.8% 306
FA Cup 3 – – –
EFL Cup 3 4 43.3% 11
Champions League 13 17 47.3% 46
Why Barcelona could turn to Zubimendi
De Jong’s situation is a part of this story. The Dutch midfielder has been recovering from a knee injury. That means Barcelona must think carefully about how to handle their midfield options. They need to find the balance while De Jong is still out. Zubimendi could be a solution. He is good at receiving the ball when under pressure. He makes precise passes that keep the play moving. His ability to stay in the position helps him cover space in front of the defence. These traits could suit Hansi Flick’s football system well.
His experience in Spain might also help him settle in faster than a player coming from Premier League. That could make him a smoother fit than someone to the country and the league. Still Barcelona would need to decide if they really need another midfield signing. De Jong is still under contract until 2029. His recovery could change everything for the club. If he returns strong his role might not be, in question. If his recovery takes time, Barcelona may need to bring in someone else.
Signing Zubimendi would require a lot of money. The financial cost is a factor. The latest Barcelona transfer news shows interest, but not an agreement. There is still a lot of work to do. Barcelona has decisions to make before anything moves forward.
Arsenal
Arsenal face a key decision over Zubimendi
Arsenal is in a position because Zubimendi is signed until 2030. The amount paid to Real Sociedad was €70 million. That investment means the club would have little reason to take a low offer. Arteta also needs to think about the strength of his team. A long season brings injuries, suspensions and a busy schedule.
Losing a midfielder could make Arsenal have choices even if his current playing time is not high. The situation is worth keeping an eye on as the January transfer window gets closer. If Barcelona officially show interest Arsenal will need to decide if selling fits their goals. For now the main focus is on Zubimendi’s role in the team.
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