Arsenal’s summer transfer priority revealed

Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi is set to be Arsenal’s priority midfield target during the summer transfer window amid Jorginho’s uncertain future.

Jorginho, 32, moved to the Emirates Stadium from Chelsea last January, but his current contract is due to expire this summer, although there is an option to extend his stay in north London until 2025.

However, a return to Italy has been touted as an option and given Jorginho is yet to confirm he will remain at Arsenal next season, the Gunners are planning for his exit.

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FootballTransfers understands that Arsenal are willing to double Zubimendi’s wages in a bid to beat Liverpool to his signature, with the Reds also keen on purchasing him this summer.

Furthermore, CaughtOffside have now reported that Zubimendi is set to be Arsenal’s priority midfield target when the transfer window opens in June. The Spain international reportedly has a €60 million release clause included in his Real Sociedad contract and Mikel Arteta’s side are willing to pay that fee in order to land him this summer.

Douglas Luiz and Manu Kone are both alternatives to Zubimendi, although the former is likely to be priced out of a move by Aston Villa, while the latter is not yet considered a priority target for the upcoming window.

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Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal?

Arsenal’s chances of signing Zubimendi have also reportedly increased following Xabi Alonso’s decision to stay at Bayer Leverkusen.

Alonso, 42, has confirmed that he will remain at Leverkusen for the 2024-25 season, despite huge interest from both Bayern Munich and Liverpool.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Bayern had identified Zubimendi as their priority target in the event that Alonso replaced Thomas Tuchel in the Allianz Arena dugout.

However, they have cooled their interest following Alonso’s commitment to Leverkusen and while the Spain international is still admired by the Bavarians’ hierarchy, a summer pursuit will be up to Tuchel’s successor.