EPL: Real reason I snubbed Arsenal transfer – Zubimendi
Real Sociedad midfielder, Martin Zubimendi has revealed that he turned down a January move to Arsenal because it would have been ‘illogical’ for him to leave his current club in mid-season.
Arsenal were desperate to reinforce their options in central midfield during the January transfer window in an effort to provide competition and backup for the likes of Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka.
The Premier League leaders explored a deal for Zubimendi, whose contract at Real Sociedad includes a £52.8m release clause, but the 24-year-old had little intention of leaving the Spanish La Liga club.
Arsenal eventually secured a transfer deadline-day signing of Jorginho from Chelsea.
Asked why he rejected Arsenal, Zubimendi told Sport: “Rumors, rumors, because I told my manager that I did not want to hear anything, especially in winter.
“Leaving Real Sociedad aside with the season we are having would be illogical. Here I am very happy.”
“I look forward to a quiet summer,” Zubimendi added when asked if he would like Arsenal to make contact again come the end of the season.