As the January transfer window draws nearer, Arsenal find themselves looking to strengthen their squad after a series of injuries to key players has exposed vulnerabilities that were not as apparent earlier in the season.
Players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard have missed crucial games, and their absence has been felt deeply in recent weeks. Arsenal’s recent form—marked by a string of draws, defeats, and a painful Champions League loss to Inter Milan—has put pressure on the squad and highlighted the need for reinforcements, especially in midfield.
Currently nine points behind Liverpool in the Premier League standings, Arsenal know that a strong winter transfer strategy is essential to close the gap and keep their top-four hopes alive. Amid this period of scrutiny and uncertainty, Arsenal’s transfer ambitions have once again focused on one player in particular: Martin Zubimendi. The Spain international and Real Sociedad midfielder was closely linked with a move to Liverpool over the summer, but the 24-year-old opted to remain in San Sebastián.
Now, with both the Gunners and Liverpool reportedly still keen on securing Zubimendi’s services, the race for the talented midfielder could be heating up once again. However, Arsenal’s recent developments off the pitch could give them the edge they need in this highly competitive transfer battle.
Arsenal’s Injury Woes Highlight Midfield Weakness
Injuries have been a significant issue for Arsenal this season. Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard have been sidelined at crucial moments, and the team’s dip in form has reflected the impact of their absences. Arsenal dropped points in their last few Premier League fixtures—two draws and two defeats—while also struggling in Europe. The midfield, often regarded as one of Arsenal’s strongest areas, has been particularly exposed in the absence of key figures. Declan Rice, who arrived in the summer to strengthen the midfield, has been carrying a heavy load, and news of a broken toe that has sidelined him for England’s international matches has added to the worry.
To make matters worse, Thomas Partey and Jorginho, two important midfielders for Mikel Arteta, are both set to see their contracts expire at the end of the season. With so many moving parts, Arsenal’s leadership knows that significant investment in the midfield is needed in the coming windows. The Gunners are looking for players who can add depth, creativity, and defensive solidity—traits that Zubimendi embodies.
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Zubimendi’s Potential Move to Arsenal: A New Opportunity?
The Real Sociedad midfielder has long been regarded as one of the brightest talents in Spain. Known for his impressive ability to break up opposition attacks, his passing range, and composure under pressure, Zubimendi would be a perfect fit for Arsenal’s tactical setup. While Arsenal have previously shown interest, Liverpool were believed to be in pole position to secure Zubimendi’s signature during the summer transfer window. However, the Spaniard chose to stay with La Real after weighing up his options.
With Edu Gaspar’s resignation as sporting director of Arsenal, the club is facing a period of transition. The sporting director role remains vacant, and the January transfer window will be an important test of how quickly the club can regroup and move forward. Despite this uncertainty, Arsenal’s interest in Zubimendi has not waned, and sources indicate that the Gunners could be preparing to make another move for the 24-year-old.
The Role of Roberto Olabe: Arsenal’s Possible Key to Success
A significant development in Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi may come from a familiar face: Roberto Olabe. Olabe, who has served as the director of football at Real Sociedad for several years, is set to leave the Spanish club at the end of the season. He has been instrumental in Real Sociedad’s return to Champions League football and played a key role in helping the club win the Copa del Rey in 2021.
However, recent reports suggest that Olabe has become a top candidate to replace Edu Gaspar at Arsenal, with his knowledge of the Spanish football landscape and strong relationships with key figures in La Liga positioning him as an ideal candidate. Olabe’s close ties to Mikel Arteta could be the deciding factor in Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi. Arteta and Olabe know each other well, and their working relationship could give Arsenal an advantage in landing Zubimendi, as they would be able to negotiate from a position of strength.
Olabe’s potential arrival could also help Arsenal’s recruitment efforts in Spain, particularly when it comes to targeting players like Zubimendi. His deep understanding of the market and previous success in negotiations would be a significant asset in securing key signings for the Gunners in the upcoming windows.
Liverpool’s Continued Interest in Zubimendi
Despite Arsenal’s growing involvement in the Zubimendi race, Liverpool’s interest remains strong. The Reds were reportedly close to signing Zubimendi in the summer, and while he chose to stay at Real Sociedad, it’s clear that Jurgen Klopp’s side could still make a move in January. Liverpool’s need for a dynamic and defensive-minded midfielder has only increased in recent months, with the team struggling at times in midfield.
Arsenal, however, may now have a critical advantage in this battle. While Liverpool have been focused on adding depth to their midfield, Arsenal’s need for a top-tier midfielder has been highlighted by the recent injury issues and the potential departure of key players. The Gunners may be able to present Zubimendi with a clearer vision of his role at the club, particularly if Olabe’s arrival at Arsenal can help push the deal over the line.
The Case for Zubimendi at Arsenal: A Perfect Fit
Zubimendi’s playing style makes him an ideal candidate for Arsenal’s midfield. His technical ability, vision, and defensive acumen would provide Arteta with a more balanced and complete midfield option. The addition of a player like Zubimendi would give Arsenal more depth, especially as they navigate the demanding Premier League and European schedules.
Arsenal’s midfield has often relied on a combination of Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, with Jorginho and Thomas Partey providing additional support. However, with the uncertainty around Partey and Jorginho’s future, Zubimendi’s potential arrival would offer Arteta another dependable option in the middle of the park.
Moreover, the tactical flexibility that Zubimendi offers could be invaluable. His ability to control the tempo of a game, win tackles, and distribute passes effectively would complement the attacking qualities of Saka, Ødegaard, and others in the Arsenal squad.
The Midfield Revolution: A Crucial Moment for Arsenal
As Arsenal look to make key decisions in the transfer market, the midfield remains the area of most concern. With the possibility of losing Partey and Jorginho at the end of the season, Arsenal’s investment in a world-class midfielder like Zubimendi is more pressing than ever. If Olabe’s appointment helps smooth the process, Arsenal could move decisively to secure Zubimendi’s signature, outmaneuvering Liverpool in what is expected to be a highly competitive race.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, the stage is set for Arsenal to make significant moves in the market. The club’s immediate focus will be on addressing their midfield concerns and strengthening their squad to mount a serious challenge for the title and European qualification. Martin Zubimendi could be at the center of that strategy, and with the right connections and plans in place, Arsenal may well secure an edge over Liverpool in this high-stakes transfer chase.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy
The coming months will be critical for Arsenal as they look to rebound from their recent struggles and strengthen their squad for a successful push in the second half of the season. With Zubimendi potentially on the radar, and the club’s ongoing leadership changes underlined by the possible arrival of Roberto Olabe, Arsenal find themselves in a unique position to make significant strides both on and off the pitch. Whether they can beat Liverpool to the Real Sociedad midfielder will depend on how well they execute their transfer strategy, but with the right moves, they could emerge as the frontrunners in what promises to be a captivating transfer saga.