Chelsea Eye Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi in £55m Midfield Move for 2027

Chelsea Midfield Problems Under Alonso

Chelsea’s surprising defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the London derby was their third Premier League loss this season. The Blues remain fifth, yet clear tactical flaws are emerging. Xabi Alonso’s men have been outmuscled and outnumbered in the middle of the park in every game they have failed to win, and the absence of a proper Enzo Fernandez replacement is hurting them.

Zubimendi Transfer Interest

According to El Nacional, Chelsea are weighing up a move for Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi. Alonso reportedly admired the Spaniard while at Real Madrid, before the Gunners secured his signature.

Zubimendi’s minutes at the Emirates have dropped following the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes and Myles Lewis-Skelly’s flexibility in midfield. That could prompt him to explore his options in 2027 in search of regular football.

Why Zubimendi Suits Chelsea

The 27-year-old, valued at £55m by Transfermarkt, was a key figure in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign. He offers strong work-rate and physical presence out of possession, and calmly sets the tempo in tight areas with the ball. Partnering Moises Caicedo in a double pivot looks a natural fit.

Our Take

Timing is the big question. A January approach seems unlikely, as Mikel Arteta will probably want to keep a valuable squad option for the run-in. Next summer appears the more realistic window, though Arsenal’s asking price could prove a stumbling block. Selling a rotation-level midfielder to a direct London rival would also hardly be ideal for the Gunners.