The noise emerging that Real Madrid now want to sign Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi has surprised those at Real Sociedad, according to the Independent journalist Miguel Delaney.
The club still expect the Spain international midfielder to join the Gunners this summer, but it appears nothing is sealed yet between the player and the North London club despite several initial reports claiming so.
Madrid new manager Xabi Alonso greatly admires Zubimendi and vice-versa, and Arsenal will be hoping the midfielder does not change his mind about joining them.
Liverpool wanted him last summer and it appeared he was going to move to the Anfield club, only for him to change his mind once the Gunners expressed interest.
The 26-year-old was quick to take to social media some days ago to upload pictures of himself in Spain after reports emerged that day that he was due to have a medical in London ahead of joining Arsenal.
There was little concern within the club about the comments, and they were interpreted as typical media duty talk that comes out of an international break, with Zubimendi still expected to ultimately sign for them.
However, things could change should Madrid launch an official bid for the Spaniard and Alonso shows interest in him.
The La Liga club will be ready to activate his buyout clause too, and it will be left to the midfielder to decide where he wants to go next should that happen.
Arsenal are an attractive club, but remaining in Spain and playing for Madrid under their new boss could be more appealing.
At the moment, the Gunners remain favourites to land Zubimendi, but things need to happen fast in the coming days and manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta will be pulling out all the stops to ensure they land their man.