Arsenal are of their first big signing of the summer, with Martin Zubimendi inching closer to a move to the Emirates Stadium. The 26-year-old midfielder, long admired by the Gunners, is in with the club, though are trying hard to

With Zubimendi turning heads for both clubs and country in recent seasons, excitement in circles is growing. But it's the glowing endorsement from one of football's sharpest minds, that truly underscores the magnitude of this potential signing.

Back in 2022, when Alonso was managing Real Sociedad's B team, he lavished praise on Zubimendi, having worked closely with him at the Reale Arena. "Martin's a player all coaches would want," the now Real Madrid manager declared.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

"He's generous, he always thinks more about his team-mates than himself. He has that ability to generate play, to make those around him better, always offering solutions; to improve the move."

These aren't just kind words from a former coach - they're a testament to Zubimendi's rare blend of selflessness and technical brilliance, qualities that have made him a prime target for Arsenal. Alonso's admiration goes deeper, with the coach highlighting Zubimendi's almost preternatural understanding of the game.

"He understands what the next step is before the ball gets to him," Alonso explained. "He has that ability to organise, the axis."

This ability to anticipate and dictate play has drawn comparisons to Alonso himself, who was a master of controlling the tempo during his illustrious playing career at Real Madrid, and For a manager of Alonso's calibre to speak so highly of Zubimendi speaks volumes.

It also explains Los Blancos' recent efforts to steal him from under Arsenal's nose. The giants are keen to find a replacement for who will leave the Bernabeu after 13 trophy-laden years after this month's Club World Cup, and have turned their attention to Zubimendi after being told by that wasn't for sale.

According to Spanish outlet Marca, Zubimendi recently received a phone call from Madrid that "changed everything", with the 15-time winners looking to convince him to snub the Gunners in favour of a move to the Spanish capital. Still, Arsenal remain optimistic, having laid a lot of groundwork for the transfer over the past few months.

The London club have also than Zubimendi's £51million release clause in an attempt to beat Real Madrid to the punch. Their efforts are no surprise, given Zubimendi's impressive, versatile wheelhouse.

Comfortable as a deep-lying playmaker or a box-to-box midfielder, he offers a blend of technical brilliance and tactical flexibility that few can match.

His composure under pressure and ability to read the game, plus his selfless work rate - Alonso's "generous" tag wasn't just a throwaway compliment - make it clear why Arsenal manager who makes no secret of his desire to sign players with top personalities as well as ability- has made Zubimendi a priority.

For now, Arsenal fans are holding their breath. If the club pulls off this transfer, they'll be signing a player who, in the eyes of one of football's greats, has the potential to define their future. But the fact remains: few players ever resist Real Madrid's siren song. The Gunners can only hope that Zubimendi ends up bucking the trend.

and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our