Transfer Centre

Bayern Munich 'to rival Arsenal for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi'

By Ben Sully | 09 November 2023

Bayern Munich 'to rival Arsenal for Real Sociedad's Zubimendi'

German champions Bayern Munich are reportedly set to rival Arsenal for the signature of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Bayern Munich have reportedly entered the race to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal.

The Gunners strengthened their midfield in the summer transfer window with the addition of England international Declan Rice.

Although the former West Ham United man has gone on to establish himself as a key player in the Arsenal side, the Gunners are still on the lookout for midfield reinforcements amid uncertainty surrounding Thomas Partey's future.

The North London club will reportedly entertain January offers for Partey, who has seen his 2023-24 campaign disrupted by injuries.

With Arsenal preparing for Partey's potential departure, they have allegedly identified Zubimendi as a target alongside Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pictured before the match on November 8, 2023 © Reuters

According to Bild, Arsenal could face competition from overseas, with Bayern said to be interested in signing the 24-year-old.

The German champions are still keen to bring in a new defensive midfielder after failing to do so during the summer transfer window.

They were on the verge of recruiting Joao Palhinha from Fulham, but were unable to finalise the deal before the transfer window shut on September 1.

While it remains to be seen whether they revisit a deal for Palhinha, Zubimendi has now been earmarked as a possible option.

Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel reacts on October 24, 2023 © Reuters

The Spain international was linked with a move away earlier this year, amid interest from the likes of Arsenal and Barcelona.

Zubimendi ultimately remained with Real Sociedad, helping the Basque club move top of their Champions League group with three wins and a draw.

The Real Sociedad academy product has made 17 appearances across all competitions this season, chipping in with one goal and an assist.

Despite being under contract until June 2027, his current deal supposedly contains a release clause in the region of €60m (£52m).

In addition to Bayern, Arsenal could also face competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United, who are also believed to be among Zubimendi's admirers.