Wow! Chelsea tried to sign Arsenal star, but the Gunners said no
Chelsea made an ambitious late move for one of Arsenal's key midfielders, but their London rivals immediately shut the door.
Details: According to The Sun, Chelsea approached Arsenal over a possible deal for Martin Zubimendi while searching for a replacement for Enzo Fernandez, who eventually completed his blockbuster move to Manchester City.
The Gunners had no intention of strengthening one of their direct Premier League rivals and rejected Chelsea's enquiry. Arsenal made it clear that they were not interested in opening negotiations over the Spanish midfielder.
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is reportedly a major admirer of Zubimendi. The Spaniard had already tried to sign the midfielder from Real Sociedad during his time in charge of Real Madrid, but Zubimendi ultimately chose Arsenal.
Despite receiving fewer minutes towards the end of last season, Zubimendi remains firmly in Mikel Arteta's plans. The Arsenal coach has previously stressed the midfielder's importance and credited him with playing a major role in the Gunners' Premier League title-winning campaign.
It is worth noting that Zubimendi joined Arsenal in July 2025 and is under contract until June 2030. Transfermarkt currently estimates the 27-year-old Spain international's market value at €75 million.
Reminder: OFFICIAL: Man City sign Enzo Fernández for €146m
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
