Arsenal face transfer battle following Xavi’s Barcelona U-turn

Arsenal are set to face major competition in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

The Spanish midfielder has been monitored by the Gunners for several months as they eye a big-money summer move for the 26-year-old. He has been touted as the perfect replacement for Jorginho, who is out of contract at the end of June.

However, Barcelona are set to rival Arsenal for his signature following Xavi’s decision to stay at the club next season.

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The Blaugrana legend had previously revealed he would step down at the end of the 2023-24 campaign, but he has now decided to stay at Camp Nou. FootballTransfers exclusively reported that Xavi was extremely likely to reverse his decision and that was confirmed by the club on Thursday.

With Xavi committed as head coach, Barcelona are set to pursue a summer move for Zubimendi, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Spanish outlet have reported that Xavi is a huge admirer of Zubimendi and would like Barca to sign him this summer, having identified defensive midfield as a problem position.

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What has Martin Zubimendi said?

Speaking to MARCA, Zubimendi has addressed transfer rumours linking him with a move away, and he reiterated that he is very happy at Real Sociedad, which has always been the biggest concern to his suitors. It is still unclear whether he has any intention to actually leave the club he has supported since he was a child.

“They are just rumours, I am happy at Real Sociedad, it is like my home,” he said. “I cannot say that I will play my entire career at Real Sociedad, perhaps the club does not want me to continue in the future. But I do not worry about those rumours.”

Zubimendi has made 44 appearances in all competitions so far this season, scoring four goals.