Now, it seems there may be genuine substance to the story.
_**[Marca journalist José Felix Diaz](https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2025/06/09/zubimendi-llegada-arsenal-aparece-real-madrid.html)**_ reports that Real Madrid are indeed trying to hijack Arsenal's deal for Martin Zubimendi.
There are concerns at Arsenal that they could miss out on signing the Spain international this summer, with the player having received a call from Real Madrid recently.
The race for his signature is now understood to be open, and Xabi Alonso's side are trying to convince him to join them over Arsenal.
**_
UPDATE:_**
**_[Arsenal journalist Tom Canton of Football.London](https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/martin-zubimendi-arsenal-transfer-takes-31817585)_** confirms that Real Madrid are indeed pushing to sign Zubimendi.
However, the Gunners remain confident that the Real Sociedad midfielder will join them this summer, with only medical tests remaining before the move is complete.