Arsenal are tracking multiple midfield targets, amid concerns a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi could be difficult.
The Gunners want to sign at least one midfielder this summer and have a long-standing interest in Zubimendi.
Bruno Guimaraes and Douglas Luiz have been on their radar but both Aston Villa and Newcastle are reluctant to sell, and other targets are also under consideration.
Zubimendi also has interest from Barcelona and Bayern Munich, but the 25-year-old has so far been reluctant to leave his boyhood club.
Martin Zubimendi playing for Spain last month (Getty Images)
He is keen to play under Xabi Alonso, his idol who coached him at Real Sociedad B and helped him break into the first team there.
Had Alonso joined Bayern Munich, Zubimendi was expected to follow him to the Bundesliga giants.
But now Alonso has decided to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for at least another season it is unclear what Zubimendi will decide.
Arsenal could overhaul their midfield this summer, depending on how many players leave.
Mohamed Elneny is out of contract at the end of the season and is attracting interest from clubs in Europe and Saudi Arabia.
Bruno Guimaraes is a target (AFP via Getty Images)
Jorginho’s deal is also due to expire in the summer and he may be tempted to return to Italy, despite talks with Arsenal over a new deal.
Thomas Partey will have one year left on his contract this summer and is being tracked by clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Arsenal are expected to be busy this summer, with the club keen to continue pushing forward.
“We have a few ideas,” Arteta said this week when asked about plans for how the squad will evolve.
“That is what this team, this club and our people are demanding – to keep moving forward, in a ruthless way, because we are not satisfied with where we are.”
