Zubimendi Responds to Chelsea Links, Reveals Arteta's Warning

Martin Zubimendi has dismissed transfer speculations linking him with a January departure from Arsenal, insisting he is happy in north London despite finding regular Premier League football difficult to secure this season.

The midfielder has attracted reported interest from several European clubs, including Chelsea, Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, following a reduction in his playing time under Mikel Arteta.

However, speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca while on international duty with Spain, the 27-year-old made it clear that he is not preparing to leave the Emirates Stadium.

“To be honest, I’m sometimes surprised by the press too,” Zubimendi said. “I understand that the winter transfer window is approaching and rumours can surface, but I think we need to be a bit more careful with what we publish.”

He also directly addressed reports suggesting a move was close.

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“I’ve also read that I might be close, but not at all.”

Martin Zubimendi Addresses Chelsea and Atlético Madrid Transfer Interest

Speculation surrounding Zubimendi’s future has intensified ahead of the January transfer window.

Atlético Madrid have been linked with a move to bring the Spain international back to his homeland, while Chelsea and Real Madrid are also reportedly monitoring his situation.

Chelsea’s reported interest has attracted particular attention because of manager Xabi Alonso’s admiration for the midfielder. Nevertheless, there is no confirmed agreement or imminent transfer. Zubimendi’s comments suggest his immediate priority remains securing a regular place in Arteta’s side rather than considering his next destination.

The midfielder also made clear that he has not allowed the speculation to distract him from his responsibilities at Arsenal.

Arteta Warned Him About Competition for Places

One of the most revealing parts of Zubimendi’s interview concerned his relationship with Arteta and the conversations they had before the current campaign.

Having struggled for regular starts, the midfielder admitted that the situation was not unexpected. Arteta had already explained that increased competition would affect playing opportunities.

“I spoke with Mikel at the beginning of the season. As he does with all the players, he explained the plan to me. He warned me that there were new signings and that there would be playing time for everyone. And here we are, fighting for it.”

Arsenal have added to their midfield options, increasing the competition alongside established players such as Declan Rice and Mikel Merino. Zubimendi acknowledged the quality within the squad and accepted that earning minutes at a club competing at the highest level would not be straightforward.

“There are some fantastic players. New signings have arrived in my position, and there were already some very good players. I’m also part of that competition that makes it so difficult to get playing time.”

Arsenal Midfielder Remains Focused on His Future at the Club

Zubimendi joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in 2025 for a reported fee of around £60 million and was an important part of the squad during his first campaign.

His situation has changed this season, with opportunities in the league becoming harder to find. However, he has not suggested that the reduced involvement has made him unhappy at the club. He remains determined to fight for more opportunities and understands that competition for places is part of playing for a team with Arsenal’s ambitions.

Zubimendi is contracted to Arsenal until 2030, giving the club a strong position should interest develop into formal approaches.