Atlético Madrid Eye Martin Zubimendi as Arsenal Consider January Sales
Martin Zubimendi could become one of the most talked-about names in the football transfer market as Arsenal weigh up player sales to ease pressure on their finances. Atlético Madrid are reportedly among the clubs most interested in the Spanish midfielder, whose role at the Emirates Stadium has become more limited this season.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Atlético are monitoring Zubimendi’s situation and believe a move could be possible if Arsenal decide to listen to offers. The Madrid club may look to build on their good working relationship with the Gunners, while also appealing to the player’s reported wish to regain a more prominent place in a team’s plans.
Why Arsenal May Consider a Sale
Arsenal are enjoying a strong campaign under manager Mikel Arteta, but on-field success has not removed the club’s financial considerations. The Gunners are understood to be assessing their squad and could make several players available as they seek to improve their financial position and create room for future business.
The club are reportedly prioritising contract renewals for three players they regard as essential. Other members of the squad may be considered for sale, continuing a strategy that has included high-value departures. The source report points to Gabriel Martinelli’s move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal for a fee of around €70 million as an example of the kind of deal that could help Arsenal raise significant funds.
Zubimendi is among the players linked with a potential exit, alongside Viktor Gyökeres and Mikel Merino. Those names should be treated as transfer speculation rather than confirmed decisions: Arsenal have not publicly announced that they intend to sell the midfielder. Nevertheless, his reduced playing time has added weight to questions about his future.
A Smaller Role at the Emirates
Zubimendi’s situation appears to have changed considerably since his arrival. Last season, he was viewed as a strong addition and remained in contention for recognition as one of the Premier League’s best signings as late as March. This campaign, however, he has struggled to secure a regular starting place.
The midfielder has reportedly played around 380 minutes across 12 appearances since the start of the season, starting only once and completing the full match in a Champions League fixture against Slavia Prague. Several of his other outings have been brief, leaving him with limited opportunity to establish a consistent rhythm.
Competition in midfield is a major factor. Bruno Guimarães is said to have settled quickly, intensifying the contest for places and making it harder for Zubimendi to command a starting role. For a player signed for a reported €60 million less than two years ago, a reduced contribution could prompt Arsenal to consider whether a transfer would suit both the club’s finances and the player’s career.
Still, limited minutes do not automatically mean a lack of quality or commitment. Midfield roles are often shaped by tactical choices, form, fitness and the balance a manager wants in a particular match. Zubimendi’s passing, positioning and ability to help control possession could remain valuable to Arsenal, especially during a demanding schedule.
Atlético’s Long-Standing Interest
Atlético Madrid’s interest is not entirely new. The Spanish club reportedly explored Zubimendi’s availability when he was at Real Sociedad, making contact with people close to the player to understand his position. At that stage, he had already agreed terms with Arsenal, and the move to north London went ahead.
Now, Atlético may see an opportunity to return to the pursuit. A transfer would offer Zubimendi the chance to play in Spain again and potentially take on a more central role, while giving Atlético another option in midfield. His familiarity with Spanish football could make the transition easier, although adapting to Atlético’s tactical demands would still be a significant challenge.
The clubs’ relationship could also help discussions, according to the report. Previous transfer dealings, including the Julian Álvarez situation referenced in the coverage, may provide a foundation for communication. Good relations can open doors, but they do not guarantee agreement on a fee, salary or the structure of a deal.
Transfer Prediction: What Could Happen Next?
Prediction: Atlético are likely to continue monitoring Zubimendi, but a move is far from certain. Arsenal would want to protect the value of a player they signed for a substantial fee, while Atlético would need to decide whether they can meet the Gunners’ expectations. A loan with an obligation or option to buy could be one possible route, though no such proposal has been confirmed.
A winter transfer could be attractive if Arsenal are eager to raise funds quickly and Zubimendi wants a clearer path to regular football. However, the timing may complicate negotiations. Arsenal would need to consider whether losing a midfielder mid-season could weaken their squad, particularly if injuries or fixture congestion reduce their options.
Atlético, meanwhile, may be encouraged by the possibility of securing a player whose profile fits their needs, but the final decision will depend on price and sporting priorities. Any suggestion of a Christmas-period discount remains speculative rather than an established part of negotiations.
A Deal Dependent on More Than Interest
Zubimendi’s future will likely hinge on three questions: how much Arsenal are willing to accept, whether Atlético can produce a financially workable offer, and what role the midfielder believes he can secure. The reported interest is genuine enough to make him a name to watch, but enthusiasm from one club does not make a transfer inevitable.
For Arsenal supporters, the situation presents a familiar balance between financial planning and squad depth. For Atlético fans, Zubimendi could represent a high-quality addition if the terms are right. The coming weeks should clarify whether this develops into formal negotiations—or remains a transfer rumour shaped by the midfielder’s reduced minutes and Arsenal’s need to manage their books.
