Arsenal Reject Real Madrid Interest In Martin Zubimendi

Arsenal have no intention of selling midfielder Martin Zubimendi despite renewed interest from Real Madrid, football.london understands.

The 27-year-old Spain international, who joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad in June 2025 for just over £51 million, remains central to Mikel Arteta’s plans. His contract at the Emirates runs until 2030.

Real Madrid’s interest, however, faces internal obstacles. Senior officials at the Santiago Bernabéu are not aligned on pursuing a deal, sources indicate.

Arsenal previously fended off both Liverpool and Madrid to secure Zubimendi’s signature last year. football.london exclusively reported in June 2025 that Madrid registered their interest three months after Arsenal had already agreed terms with the player.

The Gunners had tracked Zubimendi since the summer of 2024 but delayed their move after Real Sociedad refused to lose both him and Mikel Merino in the same window. Arsenal maintained contact with the Spanish club and returned a year later to complete the transfer.

Upon signing Zubimendi, Arteta called him a “key player” who brings “huge quality and football intelligence” to the squad.

For now, Arsenal are standing firm — and any Madrid approach appears unlikely to progress.