Atlético Madrid are considering a move for Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi ahead of the January transfer window, with Diego Simeone’s side reportedly keen to strengthen their options in the centre of the pitch.
Interest from the Spanish club was first reported by Radio Nacional de España (RNE), with RNE’s report on Zubimendi saying Atlético’s interest has gathered pace. Relevo and AS have also reported on the club’s interest in the Arsenal midfielder.
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Atletico Madrid Identify Zubimendi as a January Transfer Target
Atlético are assessing their midfield options as they prepare for the winter market, and Zubimendi is understood to be a player admired by the club’s sporting department. His ability to dictate possession, protect the defence and organise play from deep makes him an attractive profile for Simeone.
Relevo reports that the former Real Sociedad midfielder is highly regarded by Atlético and that the club’s interest is linked to his current situation in north London. The report also notes that the Spanish side are looking at reinforcements in midfield after struggling to find consistent cover for some of their regular options.
Martín Zubimendi’s Arsenal Role Raises Questions About His Future
Zubimendi’s playing time has been limited this season. According to Relevo, he had made 12 appearances across competitions for Arsenal, totalling 380 minutes, with only 100 of those minutes coming in the Premier League. The outlet reported that he had started just once, in the Champions League.
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That represents a change from his first months at the Emirates, when he was a regular part of Mikel Arteta’s midfield. ArsenalTalks previously covered Arsenal’s transfer battle to sign Zubimendi and his arrival in London to complete the move. Competition for places has increased, and the midfielder’s reduced involvement could become an important factor as he considers his role for the remainder of the campaign.
Relevo also describes the relationship between Zubimendi and Arteta as cool following reported friction late last season. Those details remain media reports rather than confirmation from either the player or the club, and there has been no public announcement that Zubimendi has asked to leave Arsenal.
Arsenal Unlikely to Let Zubimendi Leave Easily
Any January move would depend on Arsenal’s position and the terms offered. Zubimendi joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad in 2025 and remains an experienced Spain international, so allowing him to leave midway through the season would be a significant decision for Arteta.
AS reports that Arsenal’s financial situation could influence their transfer plans and that Zubimendi may be among the players whose futures are being considered. However, the club have not announced that he is available, and there is no confirmed agreement or formal offer from Atlético.
Real Madrid and Other Clubs Also Monitoring Zubimendi
Atlético are not the only Spanish club to have been linked with the midfielder. Zubimendi was previously associated with Real Madrid, while reports have suggested that other major European sides are monitoring his situation.
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For Atlético, the prospect of bringing the 27-year-old back to Spain could be appealing, particularly if he is looking for a more prominent role. But interest should not be mistaken for a completed negotiation, and the financial and sporting conditions of any deal remain unclear.
January Transfer Decision Could Define Zubimendi’s Arsenal Future
The coming weeks may provide a clearer indication of whether Zubimendi remains part of Arteta’s plans or whether Atlético decide to make a formal approach. For now, the reports point to genuine interest from Simeone’s club, but no transfer has been agreed.
