Real Madrid’s summer has a fresh name attached to it. With their pursuit of Rodri appearing to collapse, Zubimendi has emerged as a reported alternative for the holding-midfield slot José Mourinho is desperate to fill, according to Bernabéu Digital. The Spanish outlet says the Arsenal midfielder — a Real Madrid target last summer — is back under consideration at the Bernabéu.
The rethink follows a dramatic 48 hours for Los Blancos. Rodri, who had looked close to a move to Madrid, is now reportedly leaning towards Barcelona instead — a swing first reported by Jijantes and picked up widely. The Guardian reported that Barcelona have stepped up their interest, forcing Mourinho to weigh his options. Bernabéu Digital notes Zubimendi’s name surfaced after journalist Aarón Domínguez posted it on X, while stressing that no negotiation is under way.
Zubimendi or an in-house solution?
If Madrid look inward instead, two candidates stand out. Summer signing Bernardo Silva impressed as a deep-lying creator during his final season at Manchester City, while Arda Güler’s pre-season form has, per the same report, convinced the coaching staff he could become the team’s orchestrator. Either route would spare a late fee — but neither is the pure controller Mourinho has craved since arriving.
For now it is watch-and-wait. With the summer transfer window open until 31 August, expect Madrid’s midfield question — Zubimendi, an internal fix, or one last twist — to shape the countdown to deadline day.
