Arsenal's stance on January deal for 'second best midfielder' as failed Julian Alvarez transfer is addressed

Zubimendi has fallen down Arsenal's pecking order this season and faces interest from Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, though the Gunners are not actively selling.

Martin Zubimendi has struggled for game time at Arsenal this season, yet to start a Premier League match after being a regular fixture alongside Declan Rice last year. The Spanish midfielder's lack of playing time has sparked speculation about a potential exit, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid monitoring his situation.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is keen to maintain squad depth in midfield and is not actively pushing to sell Zubimendi, though the club's stance could change if a significant offer arrives. Atletico winger Alex Baena has publicly expressed his desire to see Zubimendi join the Madrid club, calling him "the second-best defensive midfielder in the world" and suggesting he would be a great fit under Diego Simeone.

The article also addresses the failed Julian Alvarez transfer saga from the summer, when Arsenal were prepared to make a huge offer for the Atletico forward before the move was blocked. Alvarez ultimately stayed at Atletico but has faced criticism from fans this season following his public attempts to force a transfer to Barcelona.