Exclusive: Martin Zubimendi has decided which club he wants to join next after Arsenal and Liverpool talks

After his excellent performances at the Euros, it’s no surprise that both Arsenal and Liverpool have registered their interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Arsenal purchased Zubimendi’s former teammate this summer, Mikel Merino, who has presumably joined Mikel Arteta in north London to play as his new number eight.

In an ideal world, Arteta would probably love to have Zubimendi as his six too, but the Spaniard has proved incredibly hard to tempt away from Real Sociedad – just ask Liverpool.

Zubimendi rejected Liverpool this summer after their strong play to bring him to Anfield.

That being said, TBR Football understands that Zubimendi has decided that he wants to join Real Madrid.

Arsenal and Liverpool still want Martin Zubimendi despite Real Madrid decision

Zubimendi was subject of talks with Arsenal and Liverpool this summer, but as mentioned, neither were able to persuade him to England.

Both clubs remain interested in the 25-year-old, whilst Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are also understood to be keeping tabs on his progress.

That being said, sources close to Arsenal and Liverpool believe that Zubimendi’s overall desire is to join Madrid.

That decision won’t deter both clubs, but they do believe that was the main reason for him deciding to stay with Real Sociedad this summer.

Real, for their part, are long-term admirers of Zubimendi and it is believed that he is high on their list of potential replacements for Luka Modric, who is likely in his last year at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Mikel Arteta needs to find his Thomas Partey replacement

Of course, in regards to Arsenal’s interest in Zubimendi, the Spaniard would seemingly be designed to replace Thomas Partey in N5.

Arsenal were willing to sell Partey this summer, but a suitable offer seemingly never arrived in north London.

Partey was highlighted as a weak link at Arsenal recently, and the 31-year-old has continued to deliver below-par performances ever since.

The Ghanaian was criticised for his role in Leicester City’s goals at the Emirates last weekend, a player who is seemingly on the decline.

And although signing Zubimendi looks like a tough ask for Arsenal, pursuing the Spaniard could definitely be worth Edu’s time.