Arsenal 'future captain' believes Man City could sign 'world class' player

Manchester City are now said to have their sights set on Martin Zubimendi, with Kieran Tierney – who has been tipped as a potential Arsenal 'future captain' – singing the star's praises. The 25-year-old has dedicated his entire career to Real Sociedad since emerging from the Spanish side's youth ranks in 2016 and has so far been perfectly content to hone his skills in La Liga.

The defensive midfielder has made 198 appearances for the club and looks to be a key part of Imanol Alguacil's future strategy. Zubimendi, who Liverpool failed to lure to Anfield this summer, has also shone on the international stage, contributing to Spain's Euro 2024 victory under the watchful eye of Luis de la Fuente.

But now it is being suggested that City could make a move in his favor, with several current and former players singing Zubimendi's praises for his skills and prowess on the pitch. Among those who have played alongside the Sociedad star is Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney, who has been impressed by the Spaniard in Spain.

While Mikel Arteta said in 2021 that Tierney could one day lead the Gunners as skipper, his career was blighted by injury in north London. It remains to be seen whether he will be part of Arsenal's future plans, given that he now has strong competition for a place in defence.

The Scottish defender was looking to get his career back on track in Spain last season, and he couldn't hide his admiration for the La Liga stars' skills during a candid chat with The guardian thanks to his loan with Sociedad. He said: “You have world-class players like Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Brais Mendez.

“It's not that people don't think they're good, it's just that if you just watch the Premier League every week it's hard to tell. They're world class.”

Barcelona legend Xavi also recalled his years in charge, revealing his fondness for Zubimendi in particular. Quoted by Mundo Deportivo, he admitted: “I like all of Real Sociedad. They reflect our style of play a bit. Zubimendi is an extraordinary defensive midfielder, he understands the model we like at Barça, he dominates with and without the ball. “

As Manchester City consider their next move, luring Zubimendi out of Spain could prove to be a big challenge, reports the Manchester Evening News. Their quest could become as intense as Liverpool's recent pursuit, which saw the midfielder almost head to Anfield before opting to stay with Sociedad.

With a contract until July 2027 and a hefty £51 million release clause, any attempt to snatch him would be a gamble, especially as he has never played in the Premier League before. Pep Guardiola's side could also face additional competition for Zubimendi, as their main rivals Manchester United were also said to be interested over the summer, and Arsenal are said to be fans.

With Rodri, their first-choice midfielder, suffering a season-ending ACL injury earlier this season, Guardiola could be eyeing world-class talent in the upcoming January transfer window. If Zubimendi is out of reach, Guardiola isn't exactly short of options in the new year.

City have also been linked recently with Sporting CP's Morten Hjulmand, Porto skipper Alan Varela and Crystal Palace sensation Adam Wharton.