Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has dismissed links suggesting he could complete a transfer to Arsenal this summer. Mikel Arteta’s side are keen to build on their amazing Premier League season - whatever the outcome - and football.london understands that the Spaniard wants to sign at least one midfielder.
West Ham United’s Declan Rice is Arteta’s primary target but a host of other names have also been linked recently, including Sociedad star Zubimendi. Rice could cost the Gunners around £100million this summer after the England international has rejected numerous contract proposals to stay at the London Stadium.
Barcelona were among the clubs interested in signing Zubimendi this summer but a report from Spanish outlet Diario AS claims that the Blaugrana have backed out of a move for the talented midfielder, and will instead target Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat. The report added that Arsenal are 'very close' to signing the 24-year-old but now Zubimendi has dismissed these claims.
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The Spaniard reiterated his commitment to Sociedad in a recent interview and snubbed rumours linking him with a move to the Premier League. “I have never planned to leave Real Sociedad — I always say that," Zubimendi told Marca.
"I love life here, at home, I’m so happy here. The value of this club are same as mine so I feel very good, I always said that I’m happy.”
football.london understands that reports of interest in the Spaniard from Arsenal are genuine, however, Sociedad were adamant that he would not be leaving the Reale Arena during the January transfer window. The 24-year-old is said to have a release clause of £53 million in his current contract with the La Liga club.
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