Xabi Alonso Eyes Zubimendi as He Aims to Block Arsenal Move

Xabi Alonso, tipped to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, wants the club to sign Real Sociedad Martin Zubimendi, who has a €60 million release clause. Arsenal have already agreed broad personal terms with the midfielder. Alonso also targets Girona Miguel Gutiérrez, with Madrid holding an €8 million buy-back clause.

When the 2025 summer transfer window approaches, a fierce battle is brewing between Arsenal and Real Madrid for the signing of Martin Zubimendi. Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso, the frontrunner to replace Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid, has reportedly urged the Spanish giants to prioritize signing the Real Sociedad midfielder, who has a €60 million (£51.5m) release clause.

Arsenal had been confident in landing the 26-year-old, having reportedly agreed on verbal terms regarding his wages and bonuses. However, Alonso sees Zubimendi’s unique midfield profile as a crucial addition to Madrid’s squad. Alonso also wants Miguel Gutiérrez, a former Real Madrid academy player now excelling at Girona, back at the Santiago Bernabeu. The 23-year-old left-back, who has six goals and 19 assists in 111 appearances for Girona, is available to Madrid for just €8 million due to a buy-back clause.

With Carlo Ancelotti likely to leave after the Copa del Rey final to coach Brazil, Real Madrid’s managerial transition could significantly influence their summer transfer business, especially with Alonso already identifying key targets. Meanwhile, Arsenal face the risk of losing out again to Madrid, despite months of groundwork in their pursuit of Zubimendi.