Martin Zubimendi could push to leave Arsenal in January if he fails to regain a regular starting place under Mikel Arteta, with Chelsea and Real Madrid among the clubs monitoring the Spain international.
The 27-year-old is understood to be determined to establish himself at the Emirates but is reportedly prepared to reconsider his future before the winter transfer window if his first-team opportunities do not improve.
Teamtalk reports that Zubimendi has already discussed his situation directly with Arteta. The Arsenal manager remains an admirer of the midfielder and is said to have reassured him that he will play an important role this season.
However, competition for places has intensified. Zubimendi is reported to have lost his starting position to Myles Lewis-Skelly towards the end of last season, while the summer arrival of Bruno Guimaraes has created another rival in midfield.
Arsenal signed Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in July 2025 after securing his long-term commitment to the club. He did not seek a move away during the latest summer window despite interest from several sides, choosing instead to fight for his place in Arteta’s squad.
Real Madrid and Chelsea are said to have made enquiries and maintained contact with the player’s representatives. Other European clubs are also understood to have shown interest, although Zubimendi’s immediate preference is to remain at the highest level of European football.
A move to the Saudi Pro League is not currently considered attractive to the midfielder, according to the report. His priority over the coming months will be to force his way back into Arsenal’s starting XI, with his involvement likely to determine whether he stays in north London or becomes one of January’s most sought-after midfielders.
