By OkayGoal
Zubimendi’s Arsenal Struggles
Zubimendi joined from Real Sociedad in July 2025 for roughly €70 million, arriving with a big reputation. He featured regularly in his first season, playing over 4,000 minutes across 57 appearances and registering six goals and three assists. However, he slipped down the pecking order late in the campaign.
This season has been tougher, with just 380 minutes from 12 outings. That lack of game time has fuelled talk of an exit, though interest from elsewhere remains strong.
Why Three Clubs Want Zubimendi
Bayern need a ball-playing holding midfielder to share the load with Joshua Kimmich, who is now over 30. Vincent Kompany currently has limited central options, and Zubimendi’s versatility would help.
Real Madrid have long admired him since his Sociedad days and still need a progressive pivot following Toni Kroos’ retirement. Atletico, meanwhile, are planning for life after Koke, and Zubimendi’s defensive qualities would suit Diego Simeone’s approach alongside Pablo Barrios.
Our Take
The €90 million price tag looks steep for a player who has barely featured this term. Arsenal would be taking a considerable gamble by asking so much, and few clubs will want to pay a premium for someone short on minutes. Bayern look the most logical destination, as their need is clearest, but a January deal may prove difficult unless Arsenal soften their stance.