- 11 hours ago
Arsenal’s Plan B summer signing if Zubimendi deal fails
Carlo Garganese
- Updated: 26 Feb 2025 11:26 GMT
- 3 min read
Arsenal have identified Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong as their Plan B target for the midfield this summer if they fail to land Martin Zubimendi.
That is according to Fichajes, who report that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a big fan of the player.
De Jong could be available this summer as his contract expires in 2026 and little progress has been made over a new deal.
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Indeed, De Jong is one of the highest earners at the club and Barcelona have spent much of the last few years trying to offload the Dutchman.
Arsenal are in the market for a top central midfielder this summer and De Jong is their plan B alternative if they fail to land top target Zubimendi.
Arsenal top target is Zubimendi
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We learned that Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi is gathering pace, with the midfielder’s representatives flying to London a fortnight ago for further discussions with club officials.
The Gunners have been long-time admirers of the Spanish international and have already held advanced talks regarding a potential summer transfer.
It is understood that Arsenal are prepared to double Zubimendi’s wages and have reached an agreement on a four-year contract.
However, despite the financial and sporting incentives on offer, the 26-year-old remains cautious about the move and is seeking assurances on non-football-related matters before committing to the transfer.
There is also still interest in Zubimendi from other major clubs such as Liverpool.
Therefore, as a backup plan, Arsenal have prepared a move for De Jong and will accelerate on this deal if they feel that Zubimendi is slipping away.
