Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is ready to challenge Real Madrid for the signing of Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to the Daily Sport.
Real Madrid are planning their squad for next season and remain interested in strengthening their midfield, despite finding a degree of tactical balance with Tchouameni, Bernardo Silva and Guler. The club’s sporting management believes that further investment may be required, with the current combination potentially viewed as a short-term solution rather than a definitive answer.
Zubimendi has emerged as one of Real Madrid’s principal targets as they search for a creative midfielder. His uncertain position at Arsenal has increased the possibility of a move, with both the player and the club understood to be open to a departure.
The Basque midfielder joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2025 for £60 million. He was initially an important part of Mikel Arteta’s midfield, but his influence declined towards the end of last season and he has since lost his regular starting place.
His reduced role followed the arrival of Guimaraes at Arsenal, while Zubimendi also faces competition from Ødegaard, Rice, Lewis-Skelly and fellow Spain international Merino. Despite that crowded midfield, his quality continues to attract significant interest.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente remains a strong supporter of the player and continues to select him for the national team. De la Fuente previously described Zubimendi as “the second-best player in his position”, underlining the regard in which he is held despite his limited club opportunities.
According to British newspaper The Independent, Chelsea are also monitoring the midfielder. Their interest is strengthened by the presence of Alonso, who knows Zubimendi well and believes he could make a major impact if given regular playing time and confidence.
The Tolosa-born coach sees Zubimendi as a suitable option for Chelsea as they seek to improve their midfield. Chelsea are currently fifth in the Premier League, while the competition for the player means Real Madrid may face a challenge from within England for one of their leading transfer targets.
