Reports from Silvia Barba, the director of sport at RNE Deportes, indicate that Atletico Madrid aims to sign Martin Zubimendi during the upcoming January transfer window. The possibility of Arsenal showing interest in Atletico players in return has also been mentioned.
“Zubimendi—a player who could have left for Arsenal back in the summer, with even Real Madrid mentioned as a possibility—is someone to keep an eye on,” Barba stated. “He could end up as a reinforcement for Atlético de Madrid during the winter break.”
She further noted that Júlian Álvarez, who was a summer target for Arsenal, might still leave Atletico if he continues to struggle. “You can throw up all the smokescreens you want, but it seems that the relationship between the player and Atlético de Madrid just isn’t working out,” Barba added.
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In addition, Marcos Duran from Relevo confirms Atletico’s intent to bring Zubimendi on board, citing the club’s need for reinforcements in January. With limited playing time at Arsenal this season, Zubimendi may consider the opportunity seriously.
Atletico’s Alex Baena has publicly supported the move, stating, “I’d love for [Zubimendi] to come. He’s the second-best holding midfielder in the world, because Rodri is the best. I hope he can come. He’d be a great addition to the team and the dressing room.”
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Interestingly, Baena also appears on Arsenal’s shortlist of winter targets, according to Miguel Delaney in the Independent. Should Arsenal allow Zubimendi to exit in January, they will likely use the funds to pursue a wide player, with Baena being one of the prime candidates.
So far this season, Zubimendi has played 12 matches for Arsenal, accumulating a mere 380 minutes. His average playing time per match stands at just 32 minutes, with only three starts to his name, two of which were in the League Cup. The lack of consistent playtime may lead the Spanish international to feel increasingly unsettled unless there are significant changes soon.
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