David Ornstein claims Arsenal were prepared to sign a midfielder for £52 million.
David Ornstein, a journalist, reported that Arsenal was prepared to sign Martin Zubimendi this month.
This month, the Real Sociedad midfielder was reluctant to leave his hometown club.
Ornstein was discussing the impending deadline on The Athletic Football Podcast.
Already during this month’s transfer window, Arsenal has strengthened its roster.
After failing to acquire long-term target Mykhaylo Mudryk, they have recruited Leandro Trossard to bolster their attack.
Jakub Kiwior has replaced Gabriel Magalhaes as the left center-back for the defense.
The Gunners’ current priority is to acquire a midfielder before the transfer window closes.
Their primary target seems to be Moises Caicedo, for whom Arsenal has had two offers rejected.
Nevertheless, according to Ornstein, Arsenal was also interested in Martin Zubimendi, but a deal could not be reached this month.
In The Athletic Football Podcast, Ornstein commented on the young Spaniard.
“I believe they considered Real Sociedad’s Zubizmendi, whose release clause Arsenal would have been willing to meet.
“However, I am uncertain as to whether he wishes to move during the January transfer window. They initially searched within that range.”
Cadena SER echoed Ornstein’s report last week, claiming Arsenal was willing to pay Zubimendi’s release clause of £52 million.
The 23-year-old has stated that he would rather join a Premier League club in the summer than Barcelona.
Real Sociedad is having a fantastic season, and Zubimendi has a clear affinity for them as a product of their academy.
Even if he misses out on Zubimendi this month, Mikel Arteta is likely to appreciate this.
He will compete with Thomas Partey for a starting position on the football team.
Arsenal lacks adequate protection for the Ghanaian, which Zubimendi would provide.
Zubimendi has access to funds, as evidenced by their Caicedo bids, but a comprehensive agreement between all parties has not yet been reached.