Real Madrid preparing January move for Arsenal star
September 14, 2026 02:00
Spanish outlet Sport reports that Real Madrid are planning a January move for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The report says Los Blancos regret turning away from a midfield signing in the summer — after Rodri opted for Barcelona — and will revisit their search for reinforcements in the winter window.
Sport adds that Zubimendi, a player long tracked by Madrid, could be targeted when the transfer market reopens at the turn of the year.
KEY CONTEXT
- According to the same report, Real Madrid were close to signing Rodri in the summer but the midfielder joined Barcelona; Madrid did not pursue an alternative at that time and now reportedly regret that decision.
- Zubimendi joined Arsenal for £60 million and was a regular starter in his debut season until May, when Myles Lewis-Skelly displaced him. Sport says he has experienced a similar loss of his starting place this season.
WHY IT MATTERS
If Real Madrid do move for a midfielder in January, Zubimendi is being positioned as a potential target because of his previous standing at Arsenal and the reported dip in his playing time. From Arsenal’s perspective, Sport states the club would look to recover the full £60m they paid if a bid arrives, making any transfer a significant financial and sporting decision for both clubs.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Real Madrid formally submit an approach for Zubimendi when the January window opens.
- If Zubimendi’s playing time at Arsenal continues to be limited and whether that affects his willingness to consider a move.
- Whether Arsenal insist on recouping the full £60m figure reported by Sport.
KEY FACTS
- Sport reports Real Madrid are preparing a January move for Martin Zubimendi.
- Madrid nearly signed Rodri in the summer; Rodri joined Barcelona instead and Madrid did not pursue an alternative then.
- Zubimendi was a regular starter in his debut Arsenal season until May, when Myles Lewis-Skelly displaced him; Sport says he has faced similar treatment this season.
- Arsenal paid £60 million for Zubimendi and would reportedly seek to recover that amount if Madrid bid.