Xabi Alonso targets Arsenal midfielder in stunning Chelsea transfer swoop
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly keen to reunite with Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi in what could become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.
Having been given significant influence over Chelsea’s recruitment, Alonso has already overseen several key signings and is now said to be pushing for the Spain international, whom he previously coached at Real Sociedad B.
Zubimendi joined Arsenal last summer and featured regularly during his debut campaign, but his place in the starting lineup became less secure towards the end of the season. With Arsenal closing in on Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimarães, his future at the Emirates has come under increasing speculation.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has also questioned whether Zubimendi still fits into Arsenal’s long-term plans, suggesting the midfielder could struggle to reclaim a regular starting role.
While an exit from Arsenal may be possible, a direct switch to Chelsea would be highly controversial, given how rarely players move between the two Premier League rivals. Alonso has previously praised Zubimendi’s intelligence, selflessness, and ability to control games, making him an ideal fit for Chelsea’s evolving squad.
