Arsenal interested in signing La Liga midfielder previously lauded by Barcelona boss Xavi - Reports

Arsenal have reportedly expressed interest in signing Barcelona target and Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

According to Football Transfers, the Gunners have an eye on the youngster as Mikel Arteta looks to add a midfielder to the squad. The report claims that the North London side are keen on adding a No. 6 that would allow record signing Declan Rice to play a more advanced role.

While Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni has been named the top target, Zubimendi has also caught the eye of the club's scouts. Arsenal had an approach for Tchouameni rejected by Madrid over the summer and thus could pivot to signing Zubimendi.

The 23-year-old has sparkled for Real Sociedad and has become the subject of interest from Barcelona and Manchester United as well. The Blaugrana manager Xavi said this about the midfielder back in May (via Fabrizio Romano):

“I consider Zubimendi as an extraordinary pivot, top player — he understands the game very well, he dominates with and without the ball,” Xavi said on Zubimendi back in May.

“Zubimendi plays kind of football that we like here at Barça, it’s our style.”

With Thomas Partey suffering from regular injuries and Jorginho's contract set to expire, Arsenal are keen on adding a defensive midfielder.

Zubimendi is believed to have a £53 million release clause in his contract with Sociedad which expires in 2027. He has bagged one goal and one assist in 13 appearances for the La Liga side this season.

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Barcelona keeping tabs on Arsenal forward: Reports

Real Madrid are also interested in the Brazilian.

Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal attacker Gabriel Jesus. According to Spanish outlet AS, the Blaugrana are facing competition from rivals Real Madrid for the Brazilian.

Jesus signed for the Gunners last season for £45 million from Manchester City last season and started his career at the Emirates strongly. However, a knee injury during the 2022 FIFA World Cup saw him miss time for the side. He also missed the initial part of the 2023-24 campaign.

He was recently impressive in the side's 2-1 win over Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League, registering one goal and one assist. He has scored four goals and provided one assist in 11 games across competitions.

Barcelona are keen on adding a versatile forward to their side filled with young attacking talent. Jesus could serve as a replacement for Joao Felix, who is currently on loan from Atletico Madrid.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, are keen on finding a long-term replacement for Karim Benzema. The veteran Frenchman left the Santiago Bernabeu in the summer for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad.