Atletico Madrid target Zubimendi while Arsenal weigh swap options

Atletico Madrid have signalled a desire to sign Martin Zubimendi in the January transfer window, with Arsenal reportedly prepared to consider a swap involving Atletico players.

Silvia Barba, director of sport at RNE Deportes, reported the interest and hinted that Arsenal’s summer target Julian Alvarez could still depart.

Barba said Zubimendi, who could have joined Arsenal in the summer with Real Madrid also mentioned, is a player to keep an eye on.

She added that he could become a reinforcement for Atletico Madrid during the winter break.

Barba noted Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez, who is still struggling, as part of the possible swap.

Club statements and confirmations

She also suggested the relationship between Zubimendi and Atletico Madrid is not working out.

A photo by Marcos Duran for Relevo confirmed Atletico’s interest and the club’s view that they need January reinforcements.

Atletico are reportedly universally keen on Zubimendi, seeing his limited minutes at Arsenal as an opportunity.

Alex Baena of Atletico said he would love Zubimendi to join, calling him the second‑best holding midfielder after Rodri and praising his potential impact on the team and dressing room.

Baena himself appears on Arsenal’s shortlist of winter targets.

Miguel Delaney of The Independent reported that if Arsenal allow Zubimendi to leave in January, they would use the funds to sign a wide player, with Baena among the candidates.

Statistics and broader interest

Zubimendi has made twelve appearances for Arsenal this season, totalling three hundred and eighty minutes – an average of thirty‑two minutes per appearance.

He has started three times in all competitions, two of those starts coming in the League Cup.

The limited playing time could leave the Spanish international feeling unsettled unless circumstances change.

Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Chelsea are all closely monitoring Zubimendi’s situation.

Arsenal wish to bring in a wide player but need an outgoing transfer first.

Consequently Real, Atletico and Chelsea see a chance to acquire Zubimendi from London.