If you are an Arsenal supporter, it is hard not to feel paranoid about the Martin Zubimendi transfer from Real Sociedad.
Cast your minds back to last year and Liverpool thought they had got the job done for Zubimendi. All signs pointed to him moving to Anfield and the Reds were convinced they had got their man.
However, at the last minute the deal fell through with Zubimendi choosing to remain in San Sebastian and Arne Slot left licking his wounds. Of course, if this had not have happened, they would not have discovered Ryan Gravenberch’s ability in a deeper role.
While it may have paid off for Liverpool in the end, the saga is still scarring not only for the Merseyside club but Arsenal too. This year, the move of Zubimendi to the Emirates Stadium has dominated the discourse.
Everybody expects the Spaniard to move to Arsenal but when the player has burnt one club before, it is easy to put your guard up, especially when fresh reports surface surrounding him. SPORT reported this weekend that Real Madrid were plotting a last-ditch bid to sign the Real Sociedad man.
It is claimed that Los Blancos have come to the realisation that Zubimendi is the best option available in defensive midfield who is currently on the market and they do not want to miss out. There are also claims that the 26-year-old would be keen to remain in La Liga if possible which only adds to the fear that Arsenal will eventually get stitched up.
But, at these moments it is best to take a step back, compose yourself and look at the situation logically. Arsenal already know when Zubimendi is going to confirm his next move and there is no surprise that it has not happened yet.
The midfielder is currently on international duty and he sent a message to the footballing world on Sunday night when he scored in the Nations League final against Portugal. There is no way that Zubimendi will be plotting his next move right now while there is still a chance of winning silverware with his country.
His final decision will come from Monday, June 9, onwards as his season officially ends and his holiday time begins. Only then will the picture become clearer for the Gunners.
For now, Arsenal need to hold their nerve and hope that they have pitched a vision which entices Zubimendi to reject Real Madrid if they try to hijack the transfer.
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