Despite the fact that FC Barcelona have managed to assemble a strong squad following the conclusion of the summer transfer window, there were certain targets at the beginning of the window that Xavi Hernandez felt quite strongly about but was unable to have them due to the club’s limited financial resources.
One of these stars was 24-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The chosen one by Xavi Hernandez to replace the then departing Sergio Busquets, the operation for the Spaniard would end up being unsuccessful due to both Barca’s own economic woes as well as the high demands of Real Sociedad to part ways with him.
According to Spanish outlet Diario AS however, another European competitor could end up beating FC Barcelona to Martin Zubimendi before the Catalans even get another hint of a chance to acquire him moving forward.
English Premier League side Arsenal are reportedly lining up to go for the talented Spanish defensive midfielder in January, after having failed to acquire his services in the final days of the summer transfer window as they believed certain complications in their squad had paved the way for a new entry like Zubimendi.
Now, Mikel Arteta’s side seems convinced that going after him in January may end up being their saving grace. However, while it is true that Barcelona currently have placed their faith in Oriol Romeu and he has been paying it back dutifully, he is anything but a long-term option for the Catalans.
The player was reportedly quite convinced with his role at Real Sociedad at the time that FC Barcelona pursued him, and it was clear that his goal of competing in the UEFA Champions League with La Real was a major priority for him.
By the time Arsenal potentially come back for his signature, the group stages would have been over and there is a chance that Sociedad would already have been eliminated from the competition, putting Zubimendi in a position where he would really have to ponder his options.
