Jamie Carragher has suggested Arsenal’s reported £75 million move for Bruno Guimaraes could spell “the end” for current midfielder Martin Zubimendi at the Emirates Stadium, which could open the door for Manchester United to make a move.
The former Liverpool defender believes the arrival of Guimaraes would create intense competition in Arsenal’s midfield and could leave Zubimendi facing an uncertain future despite only recently joining the club.
Arsenal have already agreed to sign the Brazilian from Premier League rivals Newcastle in a deal that will reportedly cost the club £70 million and about £250k-a-week in wages.
However, Carragher believes the arrival of Guimaraes could have major consequences for Zubimendi, who was signed as part of Arsenal’s midfield rebuild. The Spaniard arrived with a reputation as one of Europe’s most technically gifted holding midfielders after impressing at Real Sociedad.
Zubimendi was linked with a move to Manchester United before he made the move to Arsenal, and if he is to be sold by the Gunners, United could reignite their interest in getting a transfer deal done.
Asked about ARSENAL’s pursuit of Guimaraes, Carragher said on the Football Ramble podcast: ‘I think it’s interesting because when I look at what Arsenal are trying to do this summer, I think it’s a case of “we’re going to win the league again and we’re going to go for the Champions League”. It looks very much like they’re trying to dominate.
‘Bruno almost feels like the No. 1 for Newcastle fans when you think of all the signings Eddie Howe brought in. It felt like he was the one that really pulled on the heartstrings of Newcastle fans.
‘I was almost more of a Tonali man than Bruno, I thought he had more pace about him and could get around the pitch. I would look at Bruno and not be quite sure, I thought he was a good player but I thought, can he run? He would get fouled a lot and slowed down the game a lot.
‘He does get important goals though and he’s a good player. It will be interesting to see how Mikel Arteta uses that midfield now.
‘Will Bruno play more of a holding role, does Declan Rice still play that box-to-box role? I’m still not 100% convinced what role Rice is better in.’
Carragher added: ‘Do you think it’s the end for Zubimendi there? In terms of being what he was supposed to be when he was brought in. He was supposed to come in and be this controller. I don’t see him ever getting that place back now.’
Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal was viewed as a significant coup, with the 27-year-old regarded as a long-term solution in the centre of midfield. His composure in possession, tactical awareness and ability to control the tempo of matches made him a highly sought-after player before choosing a move to the Premier League.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, there has been no indication that ARSENAL are actively looking to sell Zubimendi. The midfielder remains part of Arteta’s plans, and the club are expected to value having multiple high-quality options as they compete across domestic and European competitions.
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