Martin Zubimendi makes Real Madrid transfer feelings clear as Arsenal fired clear message

Arsenal fended off interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Liverpool to secure the signature of Martin Zubimendi

Martin Zubimendi has turned his nose up at a potential move to Real Madrid. The 27-year-old midfielder, whom Arsenal signed from Real Sociedad for £51million in the summer, was heavily linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu before penning a five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium.

It's said that Xabi Alonso, before stepping down as head coach, considered Zubimendi as the perfect replacement for the departing Luka Modric. Andrea Berta won the race for the Spain international's signature, leaving Los Blancos empty-handed.

After missing out on Zubimendi, Real Madrid opted against the signing of a holding midfielder altogether. In an interview with Cadena Ser radio following the Gunners' win over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, the Spaniard was asked whether he's a player that Los Blancos need.

"I don't think so," said Zubimendi, as quoted by ESPN. "Real Madrid has more than enough players to do well, so no."

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Zubimendi helped Arsenal seal a place in the final at Wembley Stadium. He said: "We have taken the first step but we are aware that there are three very important months ahead."

Arsenal are currently six points ahead of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League. The Gunners also recently qualified for the round of 16 in the Champions League, becoming the first and only club to win all eight games of the group phase.

"This is about winning it. The standings are great but we will see who wins," said Zubimendi. "When you feel important and you are playing, it is truly comforting.

"It's true that I've adapted well to the league but I've noticed that the matches are very demanding, that everyone puts you under pressure and that the level is very high."

Despite links to Real Madrid, Zubimendi always had his heart set on a move to Arsenal. Upon putting pep to paper on a contract at the Emirates Stadium, the Spaniard said: "Once I made the decision to leave, I set my sights on Arsenal because I think their style of play is a good fit for me.

"It’s a young, highly motivated and ambitious team. They have shown their potential recently, and I believe the best is yet to come. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are.

"Andrea [Berta] and Mikel [Arteta] took excellent care of me, leaving me with no doubts whatsoever. This is a huge moment in my career. It's the move I was looking for; one I wanted to make. Of course, it's a big change, but I'm ready to get started.”

On linking up with Mikel Merino and David Raya, Zubimendi said: "I'm happy to be here with them. I've played many games alongside Merino over the years.

"It's important because it will make the transition much easier for me, and I'm sure they'll be a great help."