Arsenal could let Martin Zubimendi go in January to chase €70m striker

Arsenal will let midfielder Martin Zubimendi join Real Madrid in January, a move that could enable the Gunners to secure Brazilian striker Endrick on loan with an option to buy. Arsenal paid £60 million for Zubimendi in July 2025 to sign him from Real Sociedad. Zubimendi scored six goals in 57 appearances last season, helping Arsenal win their first Premier League title in 22 years. Arsenal outbid both Real Madrid and Liverpool to secure Zubimendi.

Zubimendi’s impact at Arsenal

He also helped Arsenal reach the Champions League final, where they lost on penalties to Paris Saint‑Germain. Zubimendi was regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world and helped Arsenal dominate games. This season he has dropped out of Mikel Arteta’s starting lineup, behind Myles Lewis‑Skelly.

Why Arsenal may let him go

Both Zubimendi and his close friend Mikel Merino have been linked with moves away from the Emirates because they are considered too good for the bench. Real Madrid have been alerted that Zubimendi will be available for transfer this winter. Los Blancos have long admired Zubimendi, tracking him since his Sociedad days and previously trying to sign him under Xabi Alonso. The 27‑year‑old joining Madrid would give Arsenal a boost as they aim to add Endrick in January.

Madrid are currently only willing to loan Endrick, retaining control of his long‑term future. Madrid could compromise on the loan if Arsenal complete Zubimendi’s deal, possibly including a purchase clause for Endrick. Arsenal have “raised the stakes” for Endrick and are pushing hard behind the scenes to bring him to north London.

Mikel Arteta wants a versatile new forward in January, and the Brazilian Endrick has emerged as a serious option. Endrick prefers to play as a centre‑forward but can also operate as a winger on either flank. Endrick dreams of becoming an important player at Madrid but is considering a January exit to aid his development.

The 20‑year‑old knows he cannot keep warming the bench if he wants to become a top‑class player, and Arsenal could offer him game time and major trophies. It is unclear how much Madrid could demand to sell Endrick; they paid an initial €60 million, with the potential to rise to €70 million through bonuses.

Endrick said he does not know what will happen in January and leaves it in God’s hands, asking for serenity to do the best for his career. He added he just wants to play, be happy, help teammates, score goals and make assists as he did at Lyon. Endrick shone while on loan at Lyon last term, but has only scored once in seven matches so far this season.