A year ago
“Extraordinary” – Barcelona’s Xavi trying to sweet talk Arsenal target into Camp Nou switch
Barcelona's former player and current manager, Xavi, has expressed his admiration for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, potentially complicating Arsenal's pursuit of the talented defensive midfielder. With Granit Xhaka set to leave Arsenal, the club is actively seeking a replacement to bolster their midfield. However, the high price tags associated with some candidates, such as West Ham's Declan Rice, pose financial challenges for the Gunners.
One player who could be a more affordable option for Arsenal is Zubimendi, who has been impressive for Real Sociedad at just 24 years old. The Gunners would likely have to pay around €60 million, half the cost of other targets. However, Barcelona's interest in the player could complicate matters.
It remains uncertain whether Real Sociedad would be willing to part ways with Zubimendi and if the player himself would be open to leaving. Nonetheless, Xavi's recent praise for the midfielder during a press conference suggests that Barcelona could be interested in hijacking Arsenal's potential deal.
Xavi described Zubimendi as an extraordinary pivot, emphasizing his understanding of the game, both with and without the ball. He also praised the player's ability to dominate the game, aligning with Barcelona's style of play. These comments by Xavi could potentially sway the player's decision if Arsenal were to make an offer.
For Arsenal, securing a quality replacement for Xhaka is crucial to strengthen their midfield. Xhaka has been a loyal servant to the club, and finding a player who can fill his shoes adequately is no easy task. While Rice is seen as the frontrunner, the financial aspects of a deal could prove prohibitive for Arsenal. Zubimendi, on the other hand, represents a more financially viable option, but Barcelona's interest adds an additional layer of complexity.
The outcome of this potential transfer saga will depend on various factors. Real Sociedad's stance on selling Zubimendi, the player's own willingness to leave, and Arsenal's ability to navigate the financial aspect of the deal will all play crucial roles. Barcelona's interest, as voiced by Xavi, adds an intriguing twist to the story, as they may look to swoop in and secure the talented midfielder for themselves.
In conclusion, Arsenal's pursuit of a new defensive midfielder to replace Xhaka is proving challenging due to financial constraints. Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad emerges as a more affordable option, but Barcelona's interest, highlighted by Xavi's glowing praise, could complicate matters. The eventual outcome remains uncertain, as it hinges on the willingness of Real Sociedad to sell and Zubimendi's own desires, alongside Arsenal's ability to meet the financial requirements.
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