Real Madrid eye overhaul as Zubimendi unrest fuels January hunt

After failing to sign a new defensive midfielder in the summer, Real Madrid face a midfield void and could reopen the market in January. With Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi sidelined and voicing unhappiness, the Spaniards see a chance to acquire a player who can dictate play, a quality currently missing from Jose Mourinho’s options.

Real Madrid’s summer search for a defensive midfielder ended empty, leaving a gap in the squad’s balance. Club bosses now have a multitude of names on their radar, with at least one target currently based in North London. The Bernabeu club will therefore revisit the market when the January window opens.

Midfield targets for the January window

Among the names circulating is Arsenal and England midfielder Declan Rice, whose contract situation could turn him into a market opportunity for the Bernabeu club. Reports link the Spanish giants with a possible move in 2027. Rice’s status therefore adds another layer to Madrid’s midfield planning.

The same scouting reports also name Martin Zubimendi as a back‑on‑radar option. Real Madrid had previously considered the Real Sociedad midfielder before he joined Arsenal in the summer of 2025, but the deal was ultimately ruled out. His re‑emergence now reflects the club’s continued interest.

Since arriving at the Emirates Stadium, Zubimendi has slipped down the midfield pecking order at the start of the 2026‑27 season. He has yet to start a match this season, a situation that has left the 2026 World Cup winner dissatisfied. He has already told Mikel Arteta of his unhappiness.

Zubimendi plans to review his situation in January and, if he pushes to leave for more playing time, a move to Madrid would not be surprising. The Spanish side would have the chance to act before the summer window. Arsenal’s willingness to release him will be a key obstacle.

The midfielder ticks many boxes for Los Blancos, offering the ability to dictate play that is currently lacking in Jose Mourinho’s options. Mourinho’s side currently lacks a player who can dictate the tempo from deep. Should the January window open, Real Madrid could seize the opportunity to bolster their midfield depth. The final decision will hinge on Arsenal’s stance and Zubimendi’s own ambitions.