Martin Zubimendi has a £51m release clause in his Real Sociedad contract (Image: Getty Images)
Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has disclosed that the future of Arsenal's target Martin Zubimendi will be decided in June - and has suggested it is completely up to the player if he wants to leave or not. The 26-year-old Spaniard, who turned down a move to Liverpool last summer, seems poised for a Premier League switch as Arsenal are prepared to activate his £51million release clause.
Arsenal insiders are confident that securing Zubimendi is almost certain, despite Real Madrid's continued interest in the midfielder and their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso. Alonso previously managed Zubimendi at Real Sociedad B. In an interview with Radio Marca Donostia, Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay commented on Zubimendi's situation, suggesting that the club are bracing for his departure although he stopped short of confirming any transfer specifics.
Aperribay stated: "We'll see what happens. All I ask of him is one last effort to qualify for Europe and whatever happens, will happen in June. There's no point in speculating now about whether he'll be there. He's had several opportunities to leave and he'll make the decision he wants, because he'll have more options.
"I don't remember our last conversation. When I talk to him, it's more about goals, pushing... There's one month left, and we're playing against opponents who can beat us, but we can also beat them all. There are no easy or difficult matches. Martin is part of that.
"I don't know if it's difficult for him to stay. We haven't tried to raise the clause. Don't think contracts are negotiated like that. It's more a matter of willpower. If he wants to continue the conversation, it will last five minutes. I don't know if it's difficult."
Amid discussion about Zubimendi's future, Real Sociedad have faced challenges this season with their head coach Imanol Alguacil set to leave his role after a taxing run.
Martin Zubimendi rejected a move to Liverpool 12 months ago (Image: Getty Images)
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Real Sociedad are fighting tooth and nail to achieve European football next year while Zubimendi's aspirations lie in playing Champions League football.
The club has declared that their B team manager Sergio Francisco will assume Alguacil's duties, indicating a period of transition at the Reale Arena following an exit from the Europa League at Manchester United's hands.
Despite the interest in Zubimendi, Arsenal's commitment to Thomas Partey remains, as conversations with the midfielder’s agents about a new contract continue independently.
As Jorginho is set to leave Arsenal on a free transfer at the end of June, Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his midfield. The Gunners' boss has personally advocated for the signing of Zubimendi, having a high regard for his fellow Spaniard's skills.
Manchester City have also shown interest in Zubimendi in the past.
