Romano announces Arsenal target’s astonishing U-turn

Robin Bairner

5 Jun 2024 13:00 BST
3 min read

Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Fabrizio Romano says that Arsenal completing a transfer for Martin Zubimendi remains a live prospect.

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Real Sociedad midfielder Zubimendi has been a player of interest to the Gunners for months, yet it appeared he had elected to put himself out of reach for Mikel Arteta’s side by deciding that he would only leave his current employers for either Real Madrid or Barcelona.

Arsenal have subsequently been linked with numerous different players, including Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, but according to Romano, the Spain midfielder has never taken a concrete position on his future.

“We keep hearing a lot of stories about Martin Zubimendi, who has been linked several times mostly with Arsenal and Barcelona, while some outlets are now stating that he is unlikely to leave Real Sociedad as he is happy and settled in his hometown and not looking to leave the Basque region,” Romano wrote in the Daily Briefing.

“However, my understanding remains is that this is not decided yet. Zubimendi’s future, his decision, is still not clear yet - it remains an open situation, and he has a €60m release clause.”

Arsenal could easily afford the release clause of the Sociedad star, with that price around half of what they would need to pay to secure a transfer for Guimaraes.

READ MORE: Latest Arsenal transfer rumours

© IMAGO - Martin Zubimendi, Real Sociedad

Joao Neves to Arsenal: the latest

Romano, meanwhile, has confirmed the information of Ben Jacobs that Arsenal are also following Benfica sensation Joao Neves.

“Joao Neves has been mentioned as a possible alternative for Arsenal in midfield,” he added.

“My information there remains that Neves has been scouted by Arsenal, Man United, Man City... all clubs interested but nothing is advanced at this stage. It’s also important to remember that Neves’ price tag is double compared to Zubimendi as his release clause at Benfica is €120m.”