Real Madrid are reportedly 'well positioned' to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad during this summer's transfer window, with Arsenal handed a blow in their pursuit of the Spain international.
Zubimendi famously turned down the chance to make the move to Liverpool last year in favour of remaining with Real Sociedad, but this is expected to be the summer that he leaves the Basque outfit.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Arsenal had come to an agreement over a deal for the Spain international, but it is understood that is not the case, with the Gunners yet to secure his signature despite being in a strong position.
According to AS, Real Madrid want to sign a new central midfielder during this summer's transfer window, and Zubimendi is viewed as a leading target, having now proven himself at international level with Spain.
The report claims that Real Madrid had a close eye on the 26-year-old's performances for Spain against the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Nations League, and he made a strong impression, which has led to Los Blancos accelerating their interest.
Real Madrid 'well positioned' to hijack Arsenal's Zubimendi move
Los Blancos are also planning to sign a centre-back this summer, with Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen said to be their leading target.
Huijsen has a £50m release clause in his contract with the Cherries, while Zubimendi's release clause is £51m, and Real Madrid are thought to be willing to activate both buy-out fees during the summer market.
Zubimendi has again been a key player for Real Sociedad this season, making 38 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals and registering two assists.
The midfielder has spent his entire career with La Real, making 226 appearances for the club, scoring 10 times and registering nine assists in the process, and he helped Spain win last summer's European Championship.
Do Real Madrid need another central midfielder?
Real Madrid are well-stocked in the middle of midfield, with Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Dani Ceballos, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga and Luka Modric all options.
Modric is out of contract this summer, but it is expected that he will pen a new deal until the end of next season, having once again proven to be a strong performer for Carlo Ancelotti's side this season.
There is speculation surrounding the futures of both Tchouameni and Camavinga, though, and it is not impossible to imagine one of the two leaving during this summer's transfer window.
Real Madrid are an incredibly difficult team to reject, so it is difficult to see Zubimendi turning down a switch to Bernabeu if he is presented with an offer this summer.
Ancelotti's side are planning for a busy window, with Trent Alexander-Arnold also set to arrive from Liverpool; a deal for the Englishman to move to Bernabeu on a free transfer has allegedly already been agreed.
