Real Madrid Receive Transfer Boost as Atlético Madrid Deny Zubimendi Interest
Real Madrid may have one fewer rival in the race to sign Martín Zubimendi, after Atlético Madrid reportedly rejected claims that they are planning a move for the Spain midfielder in January 2027. The denial could strengthen Madrid’s position if the player becomes available, although Chelsea are still expected to provide serious competition and Arsenal are likely to demand a substantial transfer fee.
According to journalist Antonio Ruiz, speaking on the El Partidazo programme on Spain’s COPE network, sources at Atlético have denied both negotiations and an intention to pursue Zubimendi during the winter transfer window. The comments contradict recent reports that had included the Spanish club among the midfielder’s possible suitors.
Atlético’s denial changes the transfer picture
Atlético’s reported stance is notable because the club had been linked with Zubimendi alongside Real Madrid and Chelsea. The Independent recently suggested that all three teams were monitoring the situation at Arsenal, where the midfielder’s role has reportedly become less prominent under manager Mikel Arteta.
A denial does not necessarily rule out every future possibility, particularly with a transfer window still some way off. It does, however, cast doubt on the idea of an immediate Atlético approach and leaves Real Madrid with one fewer reported competitor in the Spanish capital. For Madrid, that could matter if Zubimendi is open to returning to La Liga after his move to England.
The midfielder joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2025. His previous experience in Spain, combined with his familiarity with the league, could make a return appealing. But any transfer prediction remains uncertain: the player’s own preference, Arsenal’s plans and the financial demands of a deal will all shape what happens next.
Chelsea could be Real Madrid’s main rival
Although Atlético may have stepped back, Real Madrid are unlikely to have a clear path to the Spain international. COPE’s report identifies Chelsea as a leading potential destination if Zubimendi leaves Arsenal, giving the London club a significant role in the developing transfer story.
One factor that could work in Chelsea’s favour is the reported confidence manager Xabi Alonso has in the midfielder, dating back to their time together at Real Sociedad. A coach’s familiarity with a player can be influential, especially when a club is weighing up a major investment. Chelsea may be able to offer Zubimendi a prominent role and a clear place in their midfield plans.
Real Madrid, by contrast, could make a move that appeals to the player’s connection with Spanish football. The club’s interest would also fit a wider strategy of strengthening its midfield with technically accomplished players who can control possession and contribute defensively. Still, Madrid would need to decide whether the fee and the player’s expected role make the deal worthwhile.
Arsenal’s £60 million valuation is a major obstacle
The biggest practical hurdle is the price. The Independent has reported that Arsenal would not consider selling Zubimendi for less than £60 million—the amount the club paid Real Sociedad to secure his services. That valuation could make negotiations difficult, particularly if Arsenal believe the midfielder remains an important part of their squad despite his recent reduction in playing time.
Arsenal’s position may be shaped by more than the player’s current minutes. Clubs often resist selling a recent signing at a loss, and the Gunners may argue that Zubimendi’s value has not diminished enough to justify a lower offer. Any interested team would therefore have to decide whether to meet the asking price or attempt to negotiate through a structured deal, such as instalments or performance-related payments.
For Real Madrid and Chelsea, the fee could become a test of how strongly they believe Zubimendi can improve their midfield. A transfer at that level would likely carry expectations of regular involvement, not simply provide extra depth. The player’s role, salary and the length of any proposed contract could also influence the overall cost.
Competition at Arsenal could influence his future
Speculation about Zubimendi’s future has grown amid reports that Arteta has several midfield options available. Arsenal are said to have strengthened their squad with the £85 million signing of Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães last summer, while Declan Rice has also featured prominently in the manager’s plans.
That competition could make it harder for Zubimendi to secure the consistent starting role he may expect. Yet a crowded midfield does not automatically mean Arsenal will sell. The club could still view him as valuable cover across a demanding season, particularly if it is competing in multiple competitions and wants to avoid being short of options.
Arsenal’s broader transfer priorities may also affect the situation. Arteta is reportedly keen to add a quick winger capable of carrying the ball forward, and a major outgoing transfer could help fund that recruitment. If the club decides that a sale is necessary to balance its plans, Zubimendi could become a candidate—but that would depend on the availability of an acceptable offer and a suitable replacement strategy.
Transfer prediction: Madrid have an opening, not an advantage
Atlético Madrid’s denial gives Real Madrid a potential boost, but it does not make a move straightforward. Chelsea remain a credible rival, Arsenal are expected to protect their £60 million valuation, and Zubimendi’s own ambitions will be central to any decision.
The most important developments to watch will be the midfielder’s playing time, Arsenal’s recruitment plans and whether either Madrid or Chelsea makes a formal approach. Until those details become clearer, reports of a January 2027 departure should be treated as speculation rather than confirmation.
For now, the transfer picture is one of opportunity without certainty. Real Madrid could explore a return-to-Spain move if Zubimendi wants a fresh challenge, while Chelsea may offer a compelling alternative in the Premier League. Atlético’s reported withdrawal narrows the list of potential suitors, but Arsenal’s price and the player’s decision will ultimately determine whether this transfer story advances.
