Real won't be able to snatch Zubimendi from Arsenal. The reason is revealed

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has been linked with a move to Arsenal for a year and a half now. The transfer is now considered all but done, and even Real Madrid, it seems, won’t be able to stand in the way.

Details: As insider Ben Jacobs revealed, Arsenal have spent a long time building trust with Zubimendi to give him the confidence that the Gunners are truly set to bring him in. And Real Madrid’s interest seems to have arrived far too late.

Quote: “They simply knew they had to hurry, because if they waited and only started now, there’s a chance Xabi Alonso would come to Real Madrid and say: ‘I’m in love with Martin Zubimendi, let’s trigger the release clause.’ Now, most likely, it’s too late. As I’ve said, everything is basically agreed, but formalizing it is crucial because Zubimendi is known for waking up and changing his mind, as he’s enamored with Real Sociedad.

It’s not just about moving quickly to avoid Real’s interception. The timing of the deal is explained by the fact that since January, they’ve been working day in and day out, month after month, to build a relationship and win the player’s trust, and all of this has given him the confidence that he’s finally leaving. This hard work goes unnoticed, but I don’t think the deal would have happened without it,” Jacobs said.