Arsenal transfer news 2025 takes a dramatic twist as their long-expected signing of Martin Zubimendi is suddenly under threat. With a €60m release clause ready to be triggered, Mikel Arteta’s midfield plans face a potential derailment from none other than Real Madrid.
Arsenal fans have grown increasingly confident about Zubimendi’s arrival from Real Sociedad. But according to new reports in Spain, Los Blancos have not given up on bringing the midfielder to the Bernabéu and could offer Sociedad loan players to negotiate a lower fee.
Real Madrid Plan Clever Swoop
As reported by Diario AS and relayed via Football España, Real Madrid are plotting a move that avoids triggering the full €60m clause. Instead, they want to reduce the fee by offering Sociedad free loan deals for one or two of their youth talents.
“Zubimendi prefers to stay in Spain, but Arsenal are offering significantly better wages.” — Diario AS
Madrid’s plan hinges on two factors: convincing Sociedad to accept a reduced deal, and persuading Zubimendi to forgo Arsenal’s superior salary offer.
Arsenal Still Confident, But Pressure Grows
Arsenal are ready to pay the release clause — and their wage package is reportedly much more lucrative than Real Madrid’s. Mikel Arteta, who hails from the Basque region like Zubimendi, remains personally involved in the talks.
The midfielder remains open to a Premier League move. Still, if Madrid succeed in lowering the fee and appealing to Zubimendi’s preference for La Liga, Arsenal could be forced to explore alternatives.
Key Bullet Callouts:
- Arsenal want to trigger Zubimendi’s €60m release clause
- Real Madrid re-enter race with player loan incentives
- Zubimendi prefers Spain but Arsenal offer better salary
- No official bid yet from Madrid — but talks expected
- Arteta pushing hard to land his top midfield target
What’s Next for Zubimendi and Arsenal?
Arsenal still lead the race — but the Gunners must now act fast to close the deal. Any delay could let Madrid swing the balance in their favour, especially if they exploit the player's desire to stay in Spain.
Should Arsenal move faster to lock in Zubimendi? Or should they walk away if Madrid hijack the deal?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 8 Jun 2025 11:12
This guy clearly wants Real Madrid above Arsenal. He's just waiting for them to approach, if I was Arsenal move on.
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