Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola's stance on Martin Zubimendi with Arsenal transfer planned

Arsenal are close to completing a deal for Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. And it looks like Mikel Arteta is set to thwart some of England's top clubs with the midfielder's services.

The Daily Mail (via The Mirror) have reported that negotiations are nearing completion for Zubimendi's £51 million move to the Emirates Stadium this summer. After rejecting Liverpool last summer, the Euro 2024 winner is set to stay at San Sebastian until June before linking up with Declan Rice at Arsenal.

Liverpool had their bid for Zubimendi rejected by the player himself last summer, and Pep Guardiola's Manchester City side have also expressed interest. Arne Slot openly expressed his admiration for Zubimendi but was fortunate to already have an alternative in Ryan Gravenberch.

“If I could have bought [Zubimendi] so maybe I could have turned a little more and [the media] I would be much happier,” he said in September. “But there's no point talking about Zubimendi anymore because he stayed at Real Sociedad and we evolved and we're really happy with Ryan. “

Slot has constantly praised Gravenberch for his impressive form this season. The Dutchman notably called his compatriot “exceptional” during the Reds' draw against Fulham last month and praised his intelligence after a Champions League victory against Real Madrid.

However, Slot admitted last summer that he felt the acquisition of Zubimendi would have brought his team more wins. He said: “A club like ours should always try to sign good players who can help the team win because the season is going to be long and so you need a lot of good players.”

Guardiola is also clearly rating the midfielder, having expressed interest in Zubimendi, especially as City have felt Rodri's absence following his injury. While Zubimendi and Newcastle forward Bruno Guimaraes were on City's radar for a midfield overhaul, it appears Arsenal have jumped into the race and ruled out any chance of Zubimendi heading to the Etihad.

Arsenal's potential win could represent a significant loss for their rivals next season. After challenging teams like City and Liverpool for the title, Zubimendi hopes he will be the change needed to finally meet Arsenal's Premier League aspirations.