Real Madrid: Zubimendi fails, the real midfield problem revealed

Real Madrid has not abandoned the idea of signing a defensive midfielder, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the real problem of the merengue club lies elsewhere. While rumors around Martín Zubimendi persist, the Catalan daily reveals that the Madrid club has already turned the page, unless a market opportunity arises. A situation that reignites the debate on the need to strengthen the midfield.

The context: a crying need in midfield

Since the departure of Toni Kroos and the recurring physical problems of Aurélien Tchouaméni, Real Madrid has been desperately looking for a world-class defensive midfielder. The sports management, led by José Ángel Sánchez, has made this position an absolute priority for the 2026-2027 season. The successive departures of key players have left a void in the midfield, and internal solutions like Federico Valverde or Eduardo Camavinga are no longer enough to fill this lack of specific profile.

Last summer, the club tried its luck with Rodri, the Spanish Ballon d'Or, but he declined the offer, preferring to stay at Manchester City. This refusal was a blow to the Madrid leaders, who had to turn to other targets. It is in this context that the name of Martín Zubimendi appeared as an obvious choice. The Basque player, trained at Real Sociedad, ticks all the boxes: ideal age (27), experience in La Liga, exceptional passing quality and game reading.

Zubimendi: a highly sought-after profile

Martín Zubimendi is considered one of the best defensive midfielders of his generation. His tactical intelligence and ability to organize play make him a highly sought-after player. Arsenal signed him last summer to strengthen their midfield, and despite a start to the season as a substitute, he remains a key element of Mikel Arteta's project. The Spanish coach has been very clear: he has no intention of parting with his player. This firm stance greatly complicates Real Madrid's task.

The Basque player signed a long contract with the Gunners, which runs until 2029. Arsenal does not intend to sell him cheaply, even for an offer above 60 million euros (information not confirmed at this stage). Furthermore, Real Madrid does not want to enter a bidding war, especially after the Rodri fiasco. The merengue leaders prefer to wait for a possible winter window, but nothing is less certain.

The real problem according to Mundo Deportivo

According to Mundo Deportivo, the real problem of Real Madrid does not lie in the number 6 position. The Catalan daily emphasizes that the urgency is rather in the depth of the squad and the management of young talents. The club relies heavily on players like Valverde or Camavinga to cover for absences, but a top-level signing seems essential in the long term. However, the management seems to want to favor training and youth from the academy, like Arda Güler or Endrick, rather than spending huge sums on the market.

This approach is risky. The season is long and injuries can accumulate. Real Madrid already experienced difficulties last season due to the lack of effective rotations. Fans are worried about seeing the team lack resources against European heavyweights like Manchester City or Bayern Munich. The club must find a balance between trust in young players and the need to sign experienced players.

Remaining obstacles and next steps

The main obstacle remains Arsenal's position. Arteta considers Zubimendi a key player, even if he is not an undisputed starter. The London club has no reason to sell a player under contract until 2029. Furthermore, Real Madrid does not want to enter a bidding war, especially after the Rodri fiasco. The coming weeks will be decisive. The summer transfer window closes in a few days, and Real Madrid seems ready to wait until winter. If no opportunity arises, the club could focus on other priorities, such as signing a right-back or a backup striker. In the meantime, Madrid fans will have to be patient.

Competing clubs and alternative options

Besides Real Madrid, several European clubs are closely following Zubimendi. FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich have already shown interest in the past. But the player seems happy at Arsenal, where he signed a long contract. The Gunners, for their part, do not intend to sell him cheaply, even for an offer above 60 million euros (information not confirmed at this stage).

If Real Madrid wants to strengthen their midfield, other options exist. Names like Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle) or João Neves (Benfica) are circulating, but their cost is high. The Madrid club could also bet on the return to form of Dani Ceballos or the emergence of young players from the academy. For now, Real Madrid's transfer market seems closed, unless a last-minute surprise. A situation to watch closely.

Sporting and financial implications

The signing of a top-level defensive midfielder would have major sporting implications. A player like Zubimendi would bring stability and serenity to the team, allowing Valverde and Camavinga to focus on more offensive roles. Moreover, his experience in La Liga would facilitate his immediate adaptation. Financially, Real Madrid has significant resources, but the management wants to avoid spending recklessly. The salary policy is strict, and the club must also think about the future with contract extensions for young talents like Vinicius Jr or Rodrygo.

In conclusion, the Zubimendi case seems compromised for this summer, but Real Madrid could return to the charge in the next transfer windows. In the meantime, the club will have to make do with its current squad and hope that internal solutions are enough to compete at the highest level. Fans, for their part, are waiting for significant reinforcements to regain European glory.