Martin Zubimendi Set for Arsenal Move after Leaving Real Madrid Talks

Martin Zubimendi has reportedly signed all documents to join Arsenal, ending Real Madrid's pursuit. The Sociedad star has played nearly 200 La Liga matches. Meanwhile, new Madrid boss Xabi Alonso plans to convert 19-year-old Arda Guler into a full-time central midfielder in a 4-3-3 setup, shifting him from his former winger or advanced midfield roles.

As a team looking to reshape its midfield after the departure of legends Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, Real Madrid has faced a setback in the transfer market with Martin Zubimendi deciding to join Arsenal. Despite recent interest from the Spanish giants, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Zubimendi has signed all documents for a move to the Emirates, ending Madrid’s hopes of landing the Real Sociedad midfielder, who has made nearly 200 La Liga appearances.

With no concrete developments on alternate target Angelo Stiller, and reports suggesting he will never sign for Madrid, the club is now searching for other long-term options. Meanwhile, internally, new manager Xabi Alonso is planning tactical shifts for the 2025–26 season. One of the key decisions includes converting young Turkish talent Arda Guler into a full-time central midfielder.

Previously used sparingly under Carlo Ancelotti as a winger or attacking midfielder, Guler is now set to play a deeper creative role in a 4-3-3 setup. This positional switch is strategic, especially with Jude Bellingham firmly established as the attacking midfielder and teenager Franco Mastantuono joining soon. Madrid is betting on Guler’s vision and composure to succeed as a deep-lying playmaker in Alonso’s revamped midfield core.