Real Madrid have reopened their search for a new central midfielder in the final days of the transfer window, despite initial indications that their summer business had concluded.
This sudden shift comes at the explicit request of manager José Mourinho, who remains determined to reinforce his squad with a tactical anchor capable of organizing play and protecting the backline.
Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi has emerged as Real Madrid’s primary alternative after missing out on Rodri. Mourinho has greenlit the board to pursue the Basque playmaker, while the Gunners are reportedly open to considering a transfer should an acceptable proposal arrive.
Real Madrid had previously been linked with Rodri before the former Manchester City star agreed to join arch-rivals Barcelona. Consequently, the Los Blancos hierarchy turned their attention toward a midfielder with similar characteristics to fulfill Mourinho’s tactical needs: defensive awareness, positional discipline, press resistance, and tempo control.
Zubimendi moved to Arsenal on July 6, 2025, from Real Sociedad in a deal worth approximately €70 million following seven seasons in San Sebastián, where he made 236 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing 9 assists. In his debut campaign in North London, the 27-year-old registered 57 appearances across all competitions, contributing 6 goals and 3 assists.
On the international stage, Zubimendi has established himself as a key figure for Spain with 26 caps. He played a pivotal role in La Roja’s UEFA Euro 2024 triumph and continues to serve as the natural tactical successor to Rodri in the national side.
This is not the first time Real Madrid have explored signing Zubimendi. Former manager Xabi Alonso requested his signature last summer, though the board opted against a move at the time, believing the squad possessed sufficient midfield depth.
With the transfer deadline approaching, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Zubimendi hinges on Arsenal’s willingness to negotiate and the financial terms required, offering Mourinho a potential solution to his midfield unit.
