Mourinho's Real Madrid target Zubimendi to fill Rodri void

Real Madrid has reportedly identified Martin Zubimendi as a priority to strengthen their midfield, according to information from Team Talk relayed by Mundo Deportivo. José Mourinho has reportedly given the green light to Madrid’s board to activate this lead, as the club has just seen Rodri slip away, now close to joining FC Barcelona.

The 27-year-old Spanish international joined Arsenal last summer from Real Sociedad for €65 million, after Xabi Alonso had unsuccessfully attempted to recruit him. An undisputed starter, Zubimendi played all 38 Premier League matches and participated in Spain’s World Cup victory. His contract with the Gunners runs until 2030, which places Arsenal in a strong negotiating position.

Real Madrid will therefore have to offer a sum exceeding the €65 million spent by Arsenal, while convincing a player who has just enjoyed a full season in England. The task is all the more complex as the club has set a clear condition: no arrivals will be finalized without a prior departure.

The Merengues have already completed a busy summer transfer window under Mourinho’s direction, recruiting notably Ibrahima Konaté, Bernardo Silva, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella and Yan Diomandé, the latter constituting the summer’s most expensive transfer at €125 million. On the departures side, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Dani Ceballos and Franco Mastantuono have notably left Valdebebas.

The question remains: will Real Madrid manage to find the sale that will unlock the Zubimendi deal, and will the Spaniard be tempted by a return to his home country?