Atlético Madrid target Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi in January

La Liga giants Atlético Madrid are assessing a potential January move for Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi, with fresh reporting from Sport indicating Mateu Alemany is keen to strengthen Diego Simeone’s midfield options again despite significant recent investment. The Spain international is said to be under consideration ahead of the winter window, with Atlético viewing him as a player capable of elevating the balance and control of their central unit.

The report suggests the former Real Sociedad midfielder could become one of the most prominent names in the next market if his situation at Arsenal does not improve in terms of minutes. Clubs across Europe know what Zubimendi offers – composure in possession, positional discipline and the capacity to set the rhythm of a match from deep. Those qualities have long made him attractive at the highest level, and Atlético are far from alone in monitoring that profile.

Fit for Simeone’s midfield

Real Madrid had also tracked him closely until recently, underscoring the calibre of the player under discussion. For Atlético, the fit is obvious; Simeone has evolved parts of his team in recent seasons, yet the need for a reliable organiser in midfield remains a constant theme when elite options become available. Pairing Zubimendi with Pablo Barrios is presented as especially appealing, with Barrios currently regarded as one of the team’s standout performers.

Zubimendi’s reduced role at Arsenal

Arsenal face a decisive choice, and the player’s own appetite for change midway through the season adds another layer. The central point in the report is that Zubimendi wants to play more regularly. If that remains a concern in north London, interest from Atlético could become more relevant as the window nears.

There is no indication yet that negotiations are advanced. A player of this level would command serious attention around the continent, making any January process competitive and complicated. Atlético may admire the player, but admiration and execution are very different stages, especially in the middle of a campaign.

Atlético and Madrid battle for Zubimendi, his Arsenal stint shrinks

Martín Zubimendi has not been getting the playing time he enjoyed when he first arrived at Arsenal. He has stopped being an undisputed starter for Mikel Arteta, and his surroundings are contemplating a departure.

Atlético Madrid have always wanted his services and previously tried to sign him while he was at Real Sociedad, but the move fell through. The club intends to try again in this winter market, believing the Donostiarra would provide a quality jump to the team despite a crowded midfield.

He described Zubimendi as the second‑best pivot in the world, behind only Rodri. Baena added that Zubimendi would fit perfectly in Atlético because of his personality and would be a great addition to the squad and dressing‑room.

Radio Nacional de España reported a possible exchange that would see Martín Zubimendi arrive at Atlético in return for Julián Álvarez. Such a swap would be surprising because it would reinforce an already populated midfield area while weakening a zone that currently relies on Sorloth and Jonathan David. The midfield already includes Hjulmand, Koke, Barrios, Cardoso, Mendoza and Obed Vargas, while the attacking options rely on Sorloth and Jonathan David.

Atletico Madrid target Zubimendi while Arsenal weigh swap options

The accompanying photo credit lists Alastair Grant and Walter Zimmermann. The caption also references Paulo Futre.

Our View is that the report grabs attention but remains a long way from a situation that should cause Arsenal genuine panic. Zubimendi’s intelligence and control are assets that Arsenal would be reluctant to lose without a compelling reason.