Bernabeu Digital reports that Real Madrid are reassessing their midfield targets ahead of the January transfer window, with Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi no longer considered the leading option.
Although the Spain international remains highly rated at the Santiago Bernabeu, the club is weighing up alternatives that could better address Jose Mourinho’s team’s immediate needs.
The shift comes as Real Madrid continue to search for greater control in midfield.
Their difficulties dictating the tempo of certain matches have highlighted the need for a player capable of improving build-up play and circulating possession, but the club is reluctant to commit to an expensive mid-season deal without a clear sporting benefit.
As such, Zubimendi remains in the picture, but the circumstances surrounding a potential move make him an unlikely solution for January.
Why Zubimendi has slipped down Real Madrid’s shortlist
Martin Zubimendi is no longer a priority for Real Madrid. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Zubimendi’s profile continues to appeal to Real Madrid because of his ability to organise possession and provide structure in midfield.
However, the club’s sporting department is considering whether other candidates would offer a better fit for Mourinho’s current requirements.
The Arsenal midfielder is under contract until 2030, giving the Premier League club a strong negotiating position.
Arsenal would also be unlikely to welcome his departure midway through the season, making a January agreement particularly difficult to complete.
Understandably, those factors have reduced the momentum behind a potential transfer.
Arsenal will not want to lose Zubimendi midway through the season. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Indeed, Real Madrid have not ruled out Zubimendi, but his signing is no longer viewed as the immediate priority described in earlier speculation.
Real Madrid still searching for a midfield organiser
Real Madrid’s bigger objective is to sign a midfielder who can dictate the rhythm of matches, improve the first phase of build-up and give the team greater clarity when circulating the ball under pressure, much like Rodri, who joined Barcelona.
Simply put, the need is not just to add a player to the squad. Rather, the club wants a signing who can make a tangible difference to how the team controls games.
Zubimendi fits several of those requirements, but his potential cost and Arsenal’s position complicate the operation.
All things considered, Real Madrid now need to decide whether to pursue an alternative or wait for a more favourable opportunity.