Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has identified Zubimendi as a top target for the upcoming summer transfer window. The club has reportedly been in talks with the 26-year-old for months, and there were concerns that Real Madrid might attempt to sign him. However, recent reports suggest that Zubimendi has agreed on personal terms with Arsenal, and he is expected to join the London club once the transfer window opens.
Zubimendi currently plays for Real Sociedad in Spain and has made over 200 appearances for the club. He also played a significant role in Spain’s victory in the Euro 2024 championship.
Arsenal’s interest in Zubimendi comes at a time when some of their current midfielders may leave. Jorginho is expected to depart from north London this summer, and there are rumors that Thomas Partey could also be on his way out. With these possible changes, Arsenal sees Zubimendi as someone who can play in front of the defense, control the pace of the game, and allow Declan Rice to play further forward.
Despite this, Scholes remains unconvinced. During an appearance on The Overlap, he questioned the necessity of Zubimendi’s signing, stating, “What position is Zubimendi supposed to fill? I don’t see a gap in the team. Declan Rice already performs the defensive midfield role. People think Rice is more of an attacking player, but I don’t see that in him.”
Scholes also mentioned that he watched Zubimendi play against Manchester United for Real Sociedad and wasn’t impressed by his performance, which left him doubtful about Zubimendi’s ability to meet Arsenal’s needs.
On the other hand, Gary Neville, a former Manchester United defender, disagrees with Scholes. Neville believes Zubimendi would be an excellent addition for Arsenal. He acknowledged that although Rice and Partey are solid players, neither excels at receiving the ball under pressure or controlling the tempo of a match.
Neville stated, “I think Rice is excellent and Partey is very good, but when it comes to controlling the game, especially in the biggest matches, they struggle. Jorginho is probably the best at that in the current squad, but they need someone even better. That’s where Zubimendi could be vital.”
Besides Zubimendi, Arsenal is also seeking to sign a new striker to strengthen the squad. They are reportedly eyeing players like Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, and Liam Delap. Arsenal is eager to improve its team, as they’ve gone five seasons without a trophy.
Currently, Arsenal is in second place in the Premier League, but that position is under threat. With just two matches left, teams like Newcastle United, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Aston Villa are close behind and could surpass them.
Arsenal’s next match is a home game against a strong Newcastle side, followed by a final match against Southampton, who are at the bottom of the league table.
