While Manchester City are said to have 'looked' at Zubimendi, Arsenal are seriously weighing up whether to test Sociedad's resolve. And as if the stars have aligned perfectly for Arteta, one of Zubimendi's big-hitting rival suitors - Liverpool - may no longer have a need to sign the Spanish international.

Arteta wants to add a No 6 to his team as he looks to challenge the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City for titles

Mikel Arteta has been criticised for his handling of Arsenal injuries, but has defended his approach after Bukayo Saka's quick-fire return to action against Liverpool.

Roy Keane says he is worried about Arsenals mentality while Jamie Carragher concludes Mikel Arteta is slowing morphing into a Jose Mourinho type of manager

With the Basque club knowing that other Euro 2024 winners in Robin Le Normand and Mikel Merino were leaving, for Atletico Madrid and Arsenal respectively, a boyhood fan like Zubimendi did not want to make the situation more difficult for his club.

Arsenal is reportedly monitoring Martin Zubimendi ahead of a potential transfer next summer, which would come as a big blow to Liverpool following their pursuit.

Arsenal given reason to respond to Martin Zubimendi move as winter window plans begin to take shape for title challengers