Zubimendi weighs January Arsenal exit: Chelsea and Real Madrid on alert

Martin Zubimendi is weighing up whether to force a move away from Arsenal when the January market opens. The 27-year-old Spanish midfielder has lost his place in the starting lineup and is growing frustrated with his current role. Chelsea and Real Madrid are both tracking the situation with real interest.

• The Spanish midfielder is unhappy with his reduced role at Arsenal and could push for a move in January.
• Chelsea and Real Madrid are the two clubs best placed to sign him if he becomes available.
• Mauro Icardi, a free agent since leaving Galatasaray in July, is open to joining Everton.
• Everton have played down reports linking them with both Icardi and Anthony Martial.
• Aston Villa are in talks with Dutch left-back Ian Maatsen over a new and improved contract.

Zubimendi's reduced minutes spark Chelsea and Real Madrid interest

Zubimendi's recent spell on the bench has changed the picture at the Emirates. The Spain international arrived from Real Sociedad with a reputation as a guaranteed starter, but he has struggled to hold down a regular place in Mikel Arteta's midfield. That frustration could lead to a winter exit that looked unlikely only a few months ago.

Chelsea have been monitoring holding midfielders for some time and Zubimendi fits the profile the London club wants to bring in. Real Madrid, for their part, are planning for the future of their defensive midfield spot and see the Basque player as a natural fit for their style of play. Neither club has made an official approach yet, but the player's situation suggests January could be busy.

What Zubimendi wants from a potential Arsenal departure

The midfielder wants to get back to the consistency that made him a key figure at Real Sociedad and with the Spanish national team. His influence in London has faded and he is eager to find a project where he feels central to the plan on the pitch. The Premier League has demanded a significant physical adjustment and, despite his quality, he has not fully imposed himself in Arsenal's rotation.

At 27 and under contract, Arsenal are under no pressure to sell, but the player's wishes could prove decisive if a convincing offer arrives. Chelsea have the financial muscle to make an aggressive bid, while Real Madrid would likely prefer a more measured operation that allows them to fit the midfielder into their wage structure without friction.

Everton explore free-agent striking options with Icardi and Martial linked

The Liverpool club need goals and are looking at low-cost options ahead of the winter window. Argentine striker Mauro Icardi, 33, has been without a club since leaving Galatasaray in July and would be open to a move to the Premier League. His experience and finishing instinct make him an appealing option for a side short on firepower.

Anthony Martial has also been mentioned as a possible target in recent days. The 30-year-old French forward, formerly of Manchester United and Sevilla, finished his spell with Mexican club Monterrey and remains a free agent. Still, sources at Everton have moved quickly to calm expectations, insisting the club is not currently working on either deal.

Deals and renewals shaping the January transfer agenda

The winter window is starting to heat up across the Premier League. Newcastle had tracked Italian centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, 22, but the defender has signed a new long-term contract with Atalanta and is no longer expected to move to St. James' Park. Chelsea, who were also in the market for a full-back, completed the signing of 21-year-old wing-back Marco Palestra after Liverpool showed interest but could not move due to needs in other areas.

In Birmingham, Aston Villa are working to secure Ian Maatsen with improved terms. The 24-year-old Dutch left-back has earned the trust of the coaching staff and the club wants to update and extend his deal at Villa Park. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah, 27, is considering switching his international allegiance from England to Ghana.

English clubs keep tabs on South American talent

South America remains a regular scouting ground for Premier League sides. Colombian striker Kevin Viveros, 26, who plays for Athletico Paranaense, was on the radar of Sunderland and Aston Villa over the summer. The forward is now negotiating a contract extension with the Brazilian club, putting any move to England on hold for the time being.

Frequently asked questions about Zubimendi and the January market