BREAKING NEWS : Real Madrid shifts focus as Arsenal wins the fight for Martin Zubimendi.

Arsenal are now firmly in the lead to secure Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, with their bid reportedly around €60 million (£51 million) — a package that includes a lucrative salary beyond what Real Madrid were prepared to off

Why Arsenal are ahead:
They’ve activated his release clause and reached an agreement with Zubimendi on personal terms, thanks in part to Mikel Arteta’s Basque roots and the player’s desire to join a familiar environment with fellow Spaniards like Merino .

Arsenal’s financial firepower is hard to ignore: they’re willing to meet the €60 million clause — a figure Madrid say they’re “unwilling to match” .

Real Madrid’s fallback:
Real are now shifting focus away from the Madrid derby and towards alternative midfield targets, such as Joshua Kimmich, Sandro Tonali, Rodri, and even banking on the emergence of Dean Huijsen from within

While Madrid are exploring options, it’s understood they’ll only secure Zubimendi if they match the €60–70 million release clause, though Arsenal’s bid leads the race