Real Madrid lining up move for Arsenal midfielder
August 18, 2026 03:42
EyeFootball reports that Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a renewed approach for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi after failing to secure Rodri, who has opted to move to Barcelona. According to the same account, Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has given approval for pursuing Zubimendi as an alternative target.
The article notes Zubimendi was a regular for Arsenal in 2025/26 but slipped in form after February, and that squad changes at Arsenal this summer — including the addition of Bruno Guimarães and the emergence of Myles Lewis-Skelly alongside Declan Rice — have increased the likelihood of the Spaniard being available.
KEY CONTEXT
- Madrid had targeted Rodri from Manchester City but lost out when he chose Barcelona; this is presented as the reason they are seeking alternatives.
- Zubimendi joined Arsenal before the 2025/26 season and started regularly in that campaign, per the report.
- Myles Lewis-Skelly earned promotion into Arsenal’s starting midfield partnership with Declan Rice and has continued to impress in pre-season, making it harder for Zubimendi to reclaim a regular spot.
- Arsenal strengthened their midfield this summer by signing Bruno Guimarães, a factor EyeFootball suggests could prompt Zubimendi’s exit.
WHY IT MATTERS
If Real Madrid do pursue Zubimendi, it would underline their intention to plug a midfield need after missing their primary target. For Arsenal, the situation highlights increasing competition for central midfield minutes following summer recruitment and the rise of a younger academy graduate; that dynamic could determine whether a player with World Cup-winning experience remains in the club’s plans.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Real Madrid formally submit an offer for Martin Zubimendi and how Arsenal respond.
- How Arsenal manager selection and midfield usage evolve in early 2026/27 — notably whether Myles Lewis-Skelly keeps his starting role.
- Any confirmations about Rodri’s move to Barcelona and subsequent transfer activity linked to those changes.
KEY FACTS
- EyeFootball reports Real Madrid are preparing to target Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
- Rodri reportedly chose Barcelona after being pursued by Real Madrid.
- Jose Mourinho is said to have approved a move for Zubimendi.
- Zubimendi was a regular starter for Arsenal in 2025/26 but saw form dip after February.
- Arsenal added Bruno Guimarães this summer; Myles Lewis-Skelly has been promoted to a starting midfield role.
- The 2026 summer transfer window closes on September 1, 2026.