The current Premier League leaders Arsenal are said to be ‘way out in the front’ as the race for the Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi heats up. The Gunners main competition appears to be Real Sociedad rivals Barcelona, but the €60 million (£52m) release clause La Real are asking for is making it increasingly hard for the Camp Nou dream to become a reality.
Sport Witness indicated on Wednesday that while the La Liga giants are still chasing Zubimendi, with the club’s sporting director Deco having met with the midfielder’s agent, Arsenal are the clear front-runners, and are willing to pay the required £52 million.
Reports on Mundo Deportivo also backed up Sport Witness’s claims and said Deco invited Zubimendi’s agent, Inaki Ibanez, for a meeting earlier this week attempting to convey Barca’s interest in his client. The 25-year-old’s future, however, remains increasingly unclear and with a spot in next year’s UEFA competitions near confirmed, Zubimendi could remain put. Mundo continue their report by indicating that there are other factors, not mentioned, that could make him accept or reject any potential offers that come his way.
When discussing the potential move to either Arsenal, or Bayern Munich, Mundo writes that the Gunners have ‘always positioned themselves’ to secure his signature.
