Chelsea could make a move for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi if Enzo Fernandez leaves Stamford Bridge for Manchester City during the final weeks of the Premier League summer transfer window.
The potential transfer could form part of a major midfield reshuffle involving several leading European clubs as the 2026/27 campaign gets under way. Barcelona’s efforts to sign Spain captain Rodri may set off a chain reaction, with Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca reportedly prepared to pursue a deal for Fernandez, who he previously worked with at Chelsea.
Fernandez has been linked with a possible departure from Chelsea both before and after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Chelsea are understood to have set 15 August as the deadline for considering offers, with bids expected to be in the region of £120m.
Should Rodri move to Barcelona and Fernandez subsequently join Manchester City, Chelsea would be left with a significant gap in central midfield. That could lead the London club to consider an approach for Zubimendi, who joined Arsenal last summer and has previously worked with Xabi Alonso at Real Sociedad.
The Spain international’s position at Arsenal is reportedly under pressure following the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes. Zubimendi made 57 appearances in his first season in north London and scored six goals, but his preparations for the new campaign have been disrupted as he attempts to catch up in pre-season after Spain’s World Cup triumph.
Chelsea’s interest would not necessarily be unchallenged. Real Madrid were linked with a move for the Basque midfielder before he completed his transfer to Arsenal, and the Spanish club could again compete for his signature if Zubimendi becomes uncertain about his long-term role under Mikel Arteta.
The possible sequence of moves therefore depends on several major decisions. Barcelona’s pursuit of Rodri could influence Manchester City’s midfield plans, while City’s interest in Fernandez could determine whether Chelsea need to recruit a replacement. Zubimendi’s future at Arsenal would also be central to any potential deal, particularly after the club strengthened its midfield with Guimaraes.
For now, Chelsea’s position remains dependent on whether a suitable offer arrives for Fernandez before their stated deadline. A bid close to £120m could force the club to assess its options, with Zubimendi emerging as one possible target if the former Benfica midfielder leaves.
The final weeks of the transfer window could consequently bring a series of high-profile moves involving Barcelona, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid, with the futures of Rodri, Fernandez and Zubimendi potentially connected.
