Martin Zubimendi transfer takes a massive twist as Real Madrid aim to hijack Arsenal's deal

Arsenal have been chasing Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi for a long time and while it felt like a done deal for the Gunners, there could be a few unfortunate twists for the North London outfit. 

For weeks, it felt like it was a matter of time before the Spanish midfield made the move to Arsenal. Recent reports on Diario AS suggest that Real Madrid have entered the race to sign the 26-year-old in the last minute in an attempt to hijack Arsenal's deal. 

This has been the primary cause of the delay as Zubimendi's entourage are now taking a call on his future destination. As per reports, Los Blancos have concluded that there are no other defensive midfielders of his quality and hence they are trying to land him at Santiago Bernabeu. 

Real Madrid are reportedly not looking to trigger his £50m release clause, whereas Arsenal are eager. So this could be the only factor that could tilt this deal in the favour of the Gunners. 

However, the midfielder is reportedly open to staying in La Liga itself, and a switch to the Spanish capital would be an enticing option for the Spain international. 

Zubimendi showed his worth in the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal in Munich. He took advantage of Portugal's sloppy defending and scored the opening goal and also did his primary job of controlling the tempo in the middle well. 

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Where could Zubimendi end up this summer?

There's a major possibility that the 26-year-old defensive midfielder will be leaving Sociedad this summer. However, his destination remains a major question.

Arsenal have been in the race to sign Zubimendi since last season. But Liverpool were leading the race at that time, and just when they were about to sign the Spaniard, he withdrew himself from the transfer and decided to continue at Sociedad. 

So Arsenal will be aware of such a scenario since Real Madrid have entered the discussion of securing the midfielder for less than his release clause. 

As per reports via Marca, the Gunners were on the verge of finalising the deal for the midfielder, but the entry of Real Madrid have changed everything. Zubimendi, who is already a big name in Spain could be tempted by the approach of one of the biggest teams in Europe despite Arsenal having the upper hand in the deal.