Real Sociedad player celebrating with the Real Madrid logo next to him
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From cast-off to secret signing: Real Madrid go after Zubimendi again

Real Madrid still haven't ruled out the arrival of Real Sociedad's midfielder

Real Madrid seemed to have ruled out signing Martín Zubimendi as the weeks went by. He was getting closer to Arsenal, but the truth is that his arrival hasn't been officially announced yet. Madridists don't seem to be giving up on the midfielder just yet.

The fact that it's still not confirmed means Real Madrid are preparing a new offer for him. They believe that, after searching, there's no player in his position who is better. They're going to try to convince Real Sociedad to close the transfer with them and not with the Gunners.

A player in a blue and white uniform on the field.
Zubimendi in a match with Real Sociedad | Real Madrid Confidencial

To do this, they want to present an offer that could be less than €60 million but they plan to make up for it. To lower the transfer fee, they're willing to include the loan of a player. This is something they might accept since they've had very good experiences in recent years.

Odegaard first and Kubo later were loans from Real Madrid who performed at a high level. In fact, they ended up signing the Japanese player permanently, who is now the great star of the Donostiarra team. So with Zubimendi, this could be a card they can play to secure his signing.

Real Madrid doesn't rule out signing Zubimendi yet

Even though Arsenal are very close to signing him, Real Madrid haven't ruled him out yet. Xabi Alonso keeps insisting that they fight for him, since he considers him the best candidate. He knows him from Real Sociedad's academy and the good relationship between them could be key.

A player in the red uniform of the Spanish national team during a match in the rain.
Zubimendi in a match with the Spanish national team | Real Madrid Confidencial

In addition, some sources indicate that Zubimendi would prefer not to leave Spain. That would mean his possible signing for Real Madrid still has a good chance. Although everything will still depend on the decision Madridists make in the market.

If they match Arsenal's offer of €60 million ($65.7 million), Zubimendi's release clause, they'll secure his signing. Also if Real Sociedad accept the inclusion of a player loan to lower costs. Right now everything is hanging in the air, with Madridists still fighting even though it's not easy for them.

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