Arsenal's Plan to Snatch a Star Player from Real Madrid

Arsenal has been fighting in recent seasons to win a title in England again. They've come very close to the Premier League, but still haven't managed to take the definitive step. They want to make this leap through transfers for Mikel Arteta's project.

However, that could have consequences for Real Madrid since they might be left without a star player. This has been confirmed by journalist David Ornstein, who has reported Arsenal's interest in Zubimendi. A transfer that the Whites had on their agenda.

According to him, Arsenal's keeping an eye on "the release clause of Zubimendi, which is 60 million euros." However, he also revealed the move they might prepare to secure his transfer. "They might look to pay a bit more to be able to stagger the payments," he confessed.

The idea the Gunners have is to do it this way to "make other deals next summer." Something that Real Sociedad might view favorably since it's a very high offer. More than what other teams would pay if they only refer to the clause.

A tough dilemma for Zubimendi and Real Madrid starts to doubt the operation

Real Madrid was clear that Zubimendi is the necessary reinforcement for the midfield. His ability to organize the game and his good positioning on the field had been very appealing. Additionally, they considered that his price wouldn't be exorbitant for next summer.

The fact that Arsenal is going to pay more for him than stipulated in the clause isn't a problem either. It's something the white team often does with other teams as a gesture of goodwill. However, Zubimendi might face a problem that casts doubt on Madrid.

If he leans toward the Gunners' offer, he would reunite at the English club with Mikel Merino. A detail that might make him change his mind, although the whites also have a card to play. At Bernabéu, he could have Xabi Alonso as a coach, and that's very decisive.