Arsenal join race to sign Martin Zubimendi alternative

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios if they are unable to finalise an agreement for Martin Zubimendi this summer.

Zubimendi is expected to join Mikel Arteta’s side during the 2025 summer transfer window, and FootballTransfers understands that a four-year deal has been agreed with the Spain international.

The 26-year-old is set to see his salary doubled if his proposed move to Arsenal goes through, although we have been informed that Zubimendi is seeking assurances on non-football-related matters before committing to the transfer.

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As a result, Arsenal are monitoring several alternatives in the event they aren’t able to sign Zubimendi this summer.

Atletico Madrid star Pablo Barrios is one such option, as per TBR Football, with Arsenal prepared to battle for his signature later this year.

Chelsea have also been linked with a move for Barrios over the past few months, amid Romeo Lavia’s persistent injury troubles, although the Blues are likely to prioritise sales before seriously pursuing new signings this summer.

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Pablo Barrios to Arsenal?

Barrios has been a key player for Diego Simeone so far this campaign, racking up 27 appearances across all competitions since the start of the 2024-25 season.

Furthermore, summer signing Conor Gallagher has been largely unable to start in central midfield for Atletico Madrid due to the form of Barrios and the Spaniard’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has soared to a career high of €56.5 million.

Arsenal are currently set to lose both Thomas Partey and Jorginho when their respective contracts expire at the end of June, and Mikel Arteta is determined to bring a new central midfielder to the club.

In addition, the Gunners are also looking to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, Athletic Club winger Nico Williams and either Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak or RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.