Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal transfer latest as player proves false medical claims

Arsenal continue to be linked with a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with the press in England and Spain repeatedly getting ahead of themselves amid an expected move.

The Gunners are likely to spend significantly again this summer in a bid to bridge the gap between themselves and title winners Liverpool. There are a number of areas Arsenal need to improve, and it seems as though Mikel Arteta wants to add another top-level midfielder to replace the outgoing Jorginho. Zubimendi might be the chosen one, but what’s the latest on that front? Here we take a look.

‘Medical’ claim

It was reported earlier this week that Zubimendi’s £51million release clause had been activated. It’s also worth noting that there were reports claiming the same earlier in the spring, and those reports turned out to be untrue.

This week’s claims, which came from Diario AS and ESPN, claimed that a medical had been organised ahead of a move. It seems those reports were also wide of the mark.

Zubimendi proves otherwise

A fresh report from Spanish outlet Cope has now reported that, after checking with Zubimendi’s representatives, there is no such progress in the transfer. They say the midfielder is now relaxing and enjoying holiday time at home in the Basque Country.

As you can see above, Zubimendi posted a picture on the day he was supposed to have an Arsenal medical - on Wednesday - proving that he was at a San Sebastian beach. A move does not appear to be close, or at least not as close as believed.

Zubimendi on rejecting Liverpool

Zubimendi rejected Liverpool last summer, and explaining the decision to El Diario Vasco, he said: “They were uncomfortable moments for me, because, as is normal, people talk a lot. But, anyway, you think about the pros and cons, thinking about it carefully, and you come to the conclusion that, well, for me the best thing was to stay at Real.

“Each one also looks at their personal progress a little. Because of who I am, the project, and the importance that I was going to have this year, I think that I still had steps to take at Real. Yes, there are many variables that come into the equation, but the main one was, selfishly thinking, what was best for me. It is true that then there are those thoughts, but I tell you that I tried to be, although it may seem untrue, as selfish as possible, thinking about myself first and foremost, the best thing was to stay.”

The midfielder added: “It didn’t even occur to me to read anything. It’s just that, look, they were difficult days. I didn’t go out much, I didn’t talk much to people, so I isolated myself a little from everything. I didn’t want to be contaminated, but I wanted to not be influenced by… I wanted the decision to be mine alone. I don’t think about the last train or things like that. I mean, I don’t believe in those things.

“If you are good or really want those things, in the end, they will come to you, right? There is not just one option in this life. It depends on how you look at it. There’s quite a lot. I think I have years ahead of me. I am happy with the contract I have, so we haven’t talked about anything else.”

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