Martin Zubimendi has raised fresh uncertainty over his widely reported £50 million move to Arsenal, admitting he may yet stay at Real Sociedad this summer. The Spanish midfielder, currently on international duty, addressed ongoing speculation linking him with the Gunners but refused to confirm any imminent decision.
In an interview with Radio Nacional de España, the 26-year-old dismissed suggestions that a move is already sealed. “Of course, there are options, but it’s true that it seems like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it will end,” he said. “I don’t think thinking about it right now is my priority. I’m here with the national team, which is already quite demanding, and if I have to say something, then I will.”
His comments come just days after multiple reports claimed Martin Zubimendi was undergoing a medical ahead of a switch to Mikel Arteta’s side, raising questions about the true status of the potential transfer.
Medical Claims Refuted by Social Media Post
Reports last week suggested that Arsenal were on the verge of completing the signing after arranging a medical for Zubimendi. However, the midfielder appeared to cast serious doubt on those claims by posting a photo of himself relaxing on a beach in San Sebastian at the same time the alleged medical was due.
Asked about the conflicting reports, Martin Zubimendi said: “It’s an example of what surrounds football. Many times I wake up in the morning and read things that I didn’t know I had done. That was a clear example.”
He added, “It’s true that I don’t take it very seriously, but anyway, I uploaded those photos to emphasise a little that it wasn’t exactly the reality that was happening.” The gesture was widely interpreted as a direct contradiction of the Arsenal medical rumours and has fueled speculation that negotiations may be further from completion than previously thought.
Arsenal’s Longstanding Interest in Martin Zubimendi Faces Uncertainty
Arsenal have been admirers of Martin Zubimendi for some time, with the club’s hierarchy reportedly confident of triggering his €60 million (£50.5 million) release clause. Mikel Arteta views the midfielder as a long-term replacement for the aging Thomas Partey and a key component in strengthening the team’s spine ahead of next season.
However, this latest twist suggests the Gunners may face a longer wait or even disappointment in their pursuit. With Zubimendi’s international duties taking precedence and no definitive commitment from the player, Arsenal’s plans for a quick midfield reinforcement have hit an unexpected snag.
Sources close to the club have indicated that while talks have been ongoing, Zubimendi’s reluctance to push for a move could delay proceedings significantly. The North London outfit may now have to consider alternative targets if a resolution is not reached swiftly.
Real Sociedad Still in the Picture
Martin Zubimendi’s loyalty to his boyhood club remains strong, as seen last year when he turned down a move to Liverpool to remain at Real Sociedad. While the club is resigned to the fact that his release clause could be activated, they remain hopeful of convincing the Spain international to stay for at least another season.
The midfielder has yet to close the door on continuing with the La Liga side. “I don’t know how it will end,” he reiterated, suggesting a willingness to consider all options — including remaining in San Sebastian.
Sociedad fans will be encouraged by his non-committal tone, and the club could now work to offer him an improved contract or further assurances about their ambitions to retain his services.
Real Madrid Links Add Another Dimension
Further complicating Arsenal’s pursuit is the growing interest from Real Madrid, with reports linking Zubimendi with a potential reunion with former coach Xabi Alonso, who may take over at the Bernabéu. The two previously worked together at Real Sociedad B, and Zubimendi has publicly expressed his admiration for Alonso.
“I have always said that he was my idol and that for me it was lucky that he was able to coach me in the reserve team in a very important year,” he said. However, he chose to downplay speculation. “I don’t like to talk about those hypotheses. I prefer to talk about the present because I think it would be disrespectful to answer from the national team training camp.”
The possibility of Real Madrid entering the fray adds pressure on Arsenal, who may find themselves in a bidding war or lose out altogether if Martin Zubimendi decides to wait until after the Euros to make a final decision.
Martin Zubimendi’s comments and actions this week have thrown significant doubt over what once looked like a straightforward transfer to Arsenal. With his future still undecided, and interest from multiple top clubs lingering, the saga is far from over — and the Gunners may need patience and a backup plan as the summer window unfolds.
