Martin Zubimendi has addressed ongoing speculation linking him with a summer move to Arsenal, while dismissing recent reports that claimed he had undergone a medical in London ahead of a proposed transfer.
The Spain international is one of Mikel Arteta’s main targets for the summer transfer window, with positive talks taking place between the Gunners and the 26-year-old’s representatives.
Speaking to Radiogaceta de los Deportes from Spain’s national team training camp, the Real Sociedad midfielder gave a measured response when asked about his future.
“Of course there are options. But it’s true that it seems like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it will end.
“I don’t think thinking about that right now is my priority. I’m here with the national team, which I think is already quite demanding, and if I have to say something, then I will.”
Reports in Spain and the UK had even suggested that Zubimendi had travelled to London for a medical, although he was quick to dismiss them, prompting him to post a photo from Sagues beach in San Sebastian on his Instagram story.
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“It’s an example of what surrounds football. Many times I wake up in the morning and read things that I didn’t know I had done. That was a clear example.
“It’s true that I don’t take it very seriously, but anyway, I uploaded those photos to emphasise a little that it wasn’t exactly the reality that was happening.”
While the focus remains on his international duties, Zubimendi’s future is far from certain with both Arsenal and Spanish giants Real Madrid keen on signing him.
Arteta’s side are prepared to meet his €60m ($68m) release clause, while Zubimendi refused to be drawn into speculation about a possible move to Los Blancos, following suggestions that former coach Xabi Alonso had personally contacted him.
“I have always said that he [Xabi Alonso] was my idol and that for me it was lucky that he was able to coach me in the reserve team in a very important year.
“The following year I was already in the first team and, well, I don’t like to talk about those hypotheses, I prefer to talk about the present, because I also think that it would be disrespectful to answer from the national team training camp and before facing such an important competition.”
Further clarification on Zubimendi’s future is expected following the completion of Spain’s national team training camp, where he is likely to undergo a medical and sign for the north London side.
Meanwhile, as Sporting News revealed last week, RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko remains Arsenal’s top priority for the forward position, with talks already underway over a deal for the Slovenian international.
Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is also on the shortlist of targets, and it’s understood a deal has been explored behind the scenes in case the Gunners are unable to reach an agreement for Sesko.
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