Martin Zubimendi’s Arsenal future has come under fresh scrutiny, with reports in Spain claiming the midfielder now sees Real Madrid as his preferred next destination.

The 27-year-old made a strong impression after joining Arsenal from Real Sociedad in 2025, but his role changed towards the end of last season.

Myles Lewis-Skelly moved ahead of him in midfield, while the summer arrival of Bruno Guimarães added even more competition for places.

The Premier League has already highlighted Guimarães’ defensive numbers as superior to Arsenal’s existing midfield options in several key areas.

Zubimendi wants to leave Arsenal to join Real Madrid

According to Spanish outlet Nacional, Zubimendi now “wants to leave” Arsenal and has identified Real Madrid as his preferred destination.

The report claims he has asked his representatives to accelerate discussions over a possible move and suggests Arsenal would consider a sale if Madrid meet their valuation, believed to be around €75million (£64m).

However, the picture is not completely straightforward. Earlier this month, TEAMtalk reported that Zubimendi was still prepared to fight for his Arsenal place and would only seriously consider leaving if he remained outside the regular starting XI by January.

Arsenal should not rush into a sale

Arsenal have reached a point where they can afford to be patient.

Zubimendi is no longer guaranteed a starting role, but that does not make him expendable. Arteta is managing a long season across the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups, and midfield depth will be tested.

Real Madrid’s interest is understandable, particularly because Zubimendi already knows Spanish football and would suit a possession-heavy system.

The bigger question is value. The Gunners paid around £60m to sign him from Real Sociedad in 2025, and his contract still gives them leverage.

If Madrid are willing to meet Arsenal’s asking price and Zubimendi genuinely pushes to leave, a 2027 transfer could make sense.

But with his situation still developing, Arsenal would be better served waiting until January before deciding whether this is a temporary loss of status or the beginning of the end.

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