Chelsea are reportedly weighing up a summer move for Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi as manager Xabi Alonso looks to reshape his squad.
The Blues are said to be in the market for a deep-lying midfielder regardless of what happens with Enzo Fernandez’s future at the club.
Andrey Santos’ sale to Manchester United has left a gap in Chelsea’s midfield that Alonso is keen to address before the new season begins.
Romeo Lavia remains an option in that area of the pitch, but the midfielder’s inconsistent fitness record has raised concerns about his reliability as a regular starter.
Zubimendi played a significant role in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign, operating in a deeper-lying midfield position alongside Declan Rice throughout the season.
His press resistance, forward passing, and vision to break opposition lines were all key qualities that made him such an important player for Arsenal last year.
Defensively, the Spanish midfielder is considered strong aerially and is known for his ability to mark his man effectively in one-on-one situations.
Zubimendi is also seen as an asset in a coordinated pressing system, which is expected to be a core tactical feature of Alonso’s approach when Chelsea are out of possession.
Arsenal only signed Zubimendi last year, though the club may be open to his departure following the acquisition of Bruno Guimaraes to bolster their midfield options.
Whether Zubimendi himself would be willing to leave Arsenal so soon remains uncertain, particularly if a move meant joining a club not currently occupying a Champions League position.
Chelsea will need to convince the former Real Sociedad star that a switch to Stamford Bridge represents the right step forward in his career at this stage.