Zubimendi in Real Madrid's crosshairs after Guimaraes deal

Rodri's refusal to join Real Madrid seemed to close the door on midfielder reinforcements. However, a Premier League move has reopened the possibility.

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Bruno Guimaraes, leaving Martín Zubimendi in a complicated position. The 27-year-old Spaniard arrived last summer for around €70 million but a knee injury derailed his progress, leaving him with limited playing time at the Gunners.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid were already interested in the international midfielder a year ago when he was at Real Sociedad, but arrived too late. They now have a chance to try again, though facing two obstacles: Arsenal won't sell for less than €80 million and Chelsea, with Xabi Alonso backing him, are also in the race.