Arsenal have been given the green light to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi ahead of Barcelona in the summer transfer window. That's according to Diario AS, which reports that the Blaugrana have backed out of a move for the 24-year-old in their search to improve their central ranks, and will instead target Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
A move to the Emirates Stadium for Zubimendi seems more likely, with the report claiming that he would be "very close" to accepting an offer to join the Gunners and play under Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard has been a regular for Sociedad, featuring in 31 of their 33 La Liga clashes this season.
It has seen them reach fourth in the division, with his preferred role being in a possession-based team, often getting involved in the final third. If a deal is possible, Arsenal could skip negotiations with the other club as Zubimendi is reported to have a £52million release clause in his contract.
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The midfielder has previously shut down rumours over a transfer though, telling Spanish outlet Sport: "Rumours, rumours, because I told my manager that I didn't want to hear anything, especially in winter. Leaving Real Sociedad aside with the season we are having would be illogical. Here I am very happy."
It remains to be seen if a move will be made then, but it would be a clear path to make an offer to the player if Barcelona have backed out. There are other midfielders on the agenda at Arsenal ahead of the summer though, with Arteta and Edu keen to reinforce the central ranks.
football.london understands that Declan Rice is a top priority for the club this summer, while Moises Caicedo and Mason Mount have also been linked. With that in mind, it looks set to be a busy few months in north London, with the aim of continuing to build the current project.
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