The Champions League has delivered one of the biggest surprises of the season. Real Madrid was completely outplayed by Arsenal in the quarter-finals. The aggregate score was a resounding 5-1 in favor of the English side.
Mikel Arteta gave Carlo Ancelotti no chance in either of the two matches. The Spanish coach clearly won the tactical battle. The elimination left many doubts in the Madrid board.
Mikel Arteta Emerges Again as the Major Headache for Real Madrid
But Arteta isn't satisfied with just the European victory. Now he wants to keep hitting Real Madrid on another very important front. The transfer market has become his new battleground.
The Arsenal coach has already made the first big decision. He is willing to go all out to close a key deal. He will do so by getting ahead of one of Madrid's priority targets.
Zubimendi is on the Radar of the Giants: Arsenal Takes the Lead
The one chosen by Arteta is Martín Zubimendi. The midfielder is highly regarded at Bernabéu as a natural replacement for Kroos. His tactical intelligence and balance make him a very valuable asset.
For months, Zubimendi has been closely followed by Real Madrid. However, Arsenal's emergence complicates everything. The English side could lose Jorginho, and they want to secure the replacement as soon as possible.
Arsenal Has Already Secured Zubimendi
The London team is willing to pay his release clause. The figure, close to 60 million, is not an obstacle. Mikel Arteta has personally insisted on his signing and has the club's backing.
In London, they believe that Zubimendi's style fits perfectly with their playing model. The sports project is also very attractive to the footballer. In fact, some say that Arsenal's board already considers his transfer a done deal.
Florentino Pérez Could Lose One of His Major Summer Targets
Madrid, for now, hasn't made an official move. There are doubts about whether it's wise to enter a bidding war with the English. Economically, Arsenal has the upper hand.
Meanwhile, Arteta doesn't slow down his push to strengthen his midfield. After what was seen in the Champions League, he wants to make a new leap in quality. Zubimendi seems to be the chosen one to lead that change.
Zubimendi's Future Will be Decided Once the Season Ends
Zubimendi remains focused on finishing the season well with Real Sociedad. But he already knows that his summer will be very busy. The calls from London and Madrid don't stop.
We'll have to wait for the market to open to know his decision. The truth is that Arteta has struck the first blow. Real Madrid, once again, is surprised by the Spanish coach.
If the transfer is confirmed, Arsenal will gain a key piece for their immediate future. Arteta fully trusts in his performance. Madrid will have to look for new alternatives for the midfield.