Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Arsenal considered a late move for Martin Zubimendi before signing Jorginho on deadline day.
The 23-year-old rose through Real Sociedad’s academy ranks and made his senior debut in 2018. Following Diego Llorente’s departure to Leeds United in 2020, the youngster cemented his place in the midfield. He has amassed over 100 games for the Spanish outfit in all competitions.
The midfielder signed a new contract with Sociedad last October, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2027. With a reported release clause of £52m in his contract, it would have been a straightforward business for the north Londoners.
According to Romano, Arsenal considered signing the Spaniard on the final day of the winter transfer window. However, Mikel Arteta preferred Jorginho from Chelsea on an 18-month deal. While speaking to CaughtOffside, the Italian journalist said:
“Martin Zubimendi is one of the players Arsenal also considered for their midfield, but Jorginho was a good option, and they decided to proceed for him because Mikel Arteta is a big fan and wanted Jorginho when the Moises Caicedo deal collapsed.”
Arsenal Fever View:
The Gunners are flying at the moment with a healthy five-point lead at the top of the Premier League. But the squad depth is a little concerning especially in the midfield department.
Jorginho is a very experienced player who has won the Champions League with the Blues and is a Euro 2020 winner with the Italian national team. He will bring a genuine experience of winning silverware at the highest level to this young Arsenal squad.
Zubimendi seems to be a promising talent, and although the north Londoners did not sign him in this window, a move to the Emirates in the future is not out of the question. He could be considered as a potential long-term replacement for Granit Xhaka in the midfield.
Meanwhile, Arteta and his men return to action on Saturday when they travel to Goodison Park to take on Everton. With Manchester City hot on their heels, they will be determined to secure all three points and lead the title race.
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