Transfer rumours: Zubimendi pushing to leave Arsenal
By Luke Oluoch, September 11, 2026Martin Zubimendi is reportedly ready to push for a move to leave Arsenal in January, after falling down the midfield pecking order at the club under Mikel Arteta.
The deep-lying midfielder has found playing time hard to come by this season, with youngster Myles Lewis Skelly preferred by Arteta in the midfield position. Meanwhile, the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes in the summer potentially altered the Spanish midfielder’s position in the coach’s plans.
The Brazilian completed a reported £75 million (Ksh13.13 billion) move for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes.
Future at Arsenal in doubt
Zubimendi only moved to the Emirates last summer, but the Gunners’ latest midfield addition has raised questions about his long-term role under Arteta.
According to reports surfacing on Friday, September 11, 2026, the Spain World Cup winner may seek to leave the Gunners in the January 2026 transfer window.
Suitors
A potential return to and a move to London rivals Chelsea are among the options on the cards for the former Real Sociedad star. Xabi Alonso’s side are eager to make a midfield replacement after losing Enzo Fernandez in a deadline-day transfer to Manchester City.
The club has unsuccessfully tried to replace Enzo, but their quest for a deadline-day move for Senegalese ace Lamine Camara of AS Monaco fell at the last minute after the French Ligue 1 side pulled the plug on the deal.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are reportedly interested and could also make a move for the 27-year-old Spanish midfielder. Los Blancos could make another attempt to sign the midfielder after failing to land him previously. The Spanish giants regard him as a possible alternative after their efforts to recruit Manchester City midfielder Rodri failed.
Arsenal’s valuation
This comes as Arsenal seems to be mulling over parting ways with the player. The Gunners have already placed a substantial valuation on Zubimendi amid growing interest, as per multiple reports.
The Gunners are believed to have told interested clubs that they would require at least Ksh13.5 billion before considering selling the Spain international this summer.